By Francesco Guarascio

BRUSSELS, (Reuters) – Italy and Hungary have urged EU members to explicitly call for a ceasefire and peace negotiations with Russia. They are now at odds with other EU member states who want to be tough with Moscow in advance of next week’s summit.

A draft conclusion statement to the May 30-31 summit that was seen by Reuters, dated May 19, states that the European Union is “unwavering” in its determination to assist Ukraine with its inherent right to self-defence from Russian aggression. This statement does not contain any reference to peace negotiations.

The Italian Ambassador suggested that changes be made to the text at a meeting on Friday of EU envoys. According to sources, it should reference peace talks and outline an immediate ceasefire among the EU’s goals.

Hungary and Cyprus backed the proposal, as they are two of the most vocal critics of any new EU-imposed sanctions against Russia. This package had been blocked by internal divisions for several weeks.

Hungary opposed a planned oil embargo. Cyprus is concerned about the proposed ban on Russian citizens selling property to Cyprus.

Ursula von der Leyen the President of European Commission, spoke Tuesday at Davos Forum.

“Ukraine must win war. (Russian President Vladimir Putin) Putin’s aggression should be considered a strategic failure,” she stated.

According to the latest version of summit conclusions, the EU is “remaining committed to strengthening the Ukraine’s ability to defend its territorial integrity & sovereignty.”

Poland, the Baltic States, and Poland are both strong supporters for a hard line. Latvia also urged more explicit language for military support, diplomats claimed.

After a meeting with EU envoys on Wednesday, a diplomat indicated that the revised draft was due to be submitted later.

It was last week that Italy presented a plan for peace, which included the United Nations and EU and Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe. This would allow for the facilitation of initial ceasefires.