A senior Ukrainian official expressed optimism Monday about the possibility of securing a peace agreement with Russia before the winter months arrive.
Kyrylo Budanov, who serves as chief of staff to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, described the timeline as a “realistic” possibility during remarks to the press.
The Ukrainian leader had previously stated in a weekend television interview his desire to advance diplomatic discussions with Russia, which have been dormant in recent months, ahead of winter’s arrival. Zelenskiy cited Ukraine’s enhanced strategic standing as a factor in the timing.
American-mediated discussions aimed at establishing a peace framework have stalled as Washington has turned its attention to the Iranian conflict.
Budanov indicated that a United States diplomatic team is expected to travel to both Moscow and Kyiv in the coming period, though he provided no additional specifics.
Speaking at a news briefing, he stated: “This is the president’s instruction: to try to end this war as soon as possible … preferably before winter. In my opinion, this is absolutely correct, timely, and realistic.”
Ukrainian leadership, including Zelenskiy, has reported that Russian military progress has decelerated while Ukraine has stepped up its long-distance strike operations within Russian territory, focusing primarily on petroleum facilities.
Last week, a high-ranking Ukrainian military leader indicated the country has a half-year period to gain battlefield momentum and improve its negotiating position for future peace discussions.
