European Union foreign ministers will review candidates for a special envoy to negotiate with Russia at an upcoming official meeting.
According to the Financial Times, during an EU summit next week in Cyprus, ministers will discuss the merits of potential candidates.
The meeting will also address the future of Russia-Europe relations, including "red lines" amid the Ukraine crisis and preconditions for starting a dialogue with Moscow.
The US administration under President Donald Trump has signaled to EU officials it does not oppose Europe engaging in direct talks with Russia.
Candidates reportedly include former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi, and Finnish President Alexander Stubb.
