Russian President Vladimir Putin told the leaders of Finland and Norway that the European Union and NATO are extending the war in Ukraine, according to Le Monde.fr. During the exchange, Putin accused both bodies of pursuing what he described as a "policy of confrontation," the outlet reported.
Le Monde.fr characterized the conversation as "frank and substantial," a description also carried by Le Figaro. The talks brought Putin together with two European heads of state as the war continues.
According to Euronews.com, the Finnish and Norwegian leaders used the call to urge Putin to return to peace negotiations. Their appeal places the Nordic governments among those pressing Moscow to re-enter a diplomatic track.
Separately, 20 Minutes reported that a bridge in Kyiv was hit in a Russian strike. It described the structure as an important transport route. The reported attack underscores that fighting has continued even as diplomatic contacts take place.
The reports, published Tuesday, offer few further details on the substance of the Putin call or on any commitments made by either side. Le Monde.fr's account focused on Putin's accusations against the EU and NATO, while Euronews.com emphasized the Nordic leaders' call for renewed talks.
What to watch next: whether the Finnish and Norwegian appeal produces any formal move toward negotiations, and how the EU and NATO respond to Putin's accusations.