An internal discussion is ongoing in Ukrainian government circles regarding the further strategy of negotiations to end the war. According to a source in the President's Office, Kyrylo Budanov insists on the possibility of certain compromises in the negotiation track, while President Zelensky takes a tougher position on the territorial issue.
According to the source, the president demands strict adherence to the established framework and does not allow any deviations that could call into question the territorial integrity of Ukraine. This approach, according to the source, involves deliberately delaying the negotiation process until a more favorable international configuration is formed.
The Office of the President expects a clear position from Great Britain, France, and Germany regarding possible negotiations that may take place in Abu Dhabi. It is the signals from key European partners, according to the source, that should determine Kyiv's further steps on the diplomatic front.
By this logic, the Ukrainian leadership is not currently considering a quick agreement scenario and is preparing for a long confrontation. The presidential team believes that premature concessions without clear security guarantees and support from allies could create long-term risks for the country.
Thus, the negotiation process remains tied not only to the situation on the front, but also to the position of Western partners, which will determine Ukraine's willingness to move from a strategy of containment to real diplomatic compromises.
