Karis explicitly noted that attempts to end the war have been made at the highest levels—Donald Trump, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and other world leaders have all tried to persuade Vladimir Putin to cease hostilities (NBC interview, publication date pending).

The head of state underscored that neither Estonia nor other Western nations would recognize the transfer of Ukrainian territories under pressure. Nevertheless, he remarked that when it becomes evident that civilians and children are suffering, the question of finding a balance between continuing the war and the possibility of halting hostilities inevitably arises.

On February 4, 2026, during the World Governments Summit in Dubai, Karis and Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa advocated for the appointment of a special European Union envoy to participate in negotiations with the Kremlin to end the war in Ukraine. They proposed that such a representative should be a "consensus figure" acting in consultation with the Ukrainian government.

Siliņa stated, "We must engage in diplomacy," asserting that the EU should participate in negotiations while maintaining sanctions and the isolation of Russia. She added, "We must be at the table because the Ukrainians themselves have begun negotiations."

Karis noted that the EU is late in initiating its involvement in the diplomatic process and that the chosen representative should hail from a major European country and command authority among the parties (Euronews interview, Dubai).

The Estonian President’s remarks met with domestic criticism. Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna stated in a press release that attempts to "start a dialogue with the Kremlin... would give Putin the spotlight he craves" and could weaken European security, contradicting the current policy of pressure and isolation against Russia.

According to a clarification from the President's official spokesperson, Karis was emphasizing the need for greater European involvement in the diplomatic process; the goal is not necessarily the creation of a new role, but rather increasing the EU's visibility in negotiation efforts.

The discussion regarding an EU special envoy coincides with growing international activity in Europe concerning the potential reopening of diplomatic channels with Moscow, amid efforts from Paris, Rome, and other capitals supporting the idea of direct talks.

Previously, Karis had advocated for steadfast support for Ukraine within NATO and the EU, highlighting the need for long-term security guarantees for Kyiv and the strengthening of European defense against Russian threats.