Russia currently has no intention of ending its war against
Ukraine, so a ceasefire
is unlikely to be reached this winter, Presidential Office head Kyrylo Budanov
said on Aug. 28.
Budanov made the statement during an interview with Ukrainian TV broadcasters.
“I think everyone will see [U.S.–Ukraine–Russia] negotiations very soon, but they will concern mostly technical issues and preparations for something major — something I hope we will eventually reach,” he said.
“We will not stop the war now. Not because we do not want to, but simply because it is unrealistic.”
When asked, “So for now, will we be fighting through the winter?” Budanov answered affirmatively.
“Unfortunately, I’m afraid so,” he said.
In July, the Financial Times reported that Putin was
unlikely to begin substantive peace talks with Ukraine at least until February
2027.