2 days ago
22
The head of Ukraine’s GUR military intelligence agency, Kyrylo Budanov, has expressed optimism about a potential ceasefire in the ongoing war with Russia, suggesting it could materialise within the year.
“I think it is going to happen. There are most of the components for it to happen,” Budanov stated in a YouTube interview with journalist Eynulla Fatullayev. However, he provided no further details on what these components entail or how a ceasefire might be achieved.
Despite Budanov’s remarks, many Ukrainian officials remain sceptical of a ceasefire, arguing that it would primarily benefit Russia by allowing it to regroup and rearm for future aggression.
“How long it will be, how effective it will be – is another question,” Budanov acknowledged, indicating uncertainty about the potential durability and impact of such an agreement.
Discussions surrounding a possible ceasefire have gained momentum following Donald Trump’s return to the White House for his second presidential term. Trump had previously pledged to bring the war to a swift conclusion, a stance that has raised concerns in Kyiv and across Europe.
Diplomatic manoeuvres intensified after Trump held a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin last week, sparking fears that the two leaders could strike a rapid agreement that does not align with European security interests.
Western leaders worry that such a deal could reward Moscow for its invasion, leaving Russian President Vladimir Putin emboldened to threaten Ukraine or other neighbouring nations in the future.
As global diplomatic efforts continue, Ukraine remains wary of any ceasefire arrangement that does not ensure lasting security and sovereignty. The coming months will likely prove critical in determining whether a resolution to the war is indeed within reach.
Melissa Enoch
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