Divisions persist within the Ukrainian delegation involved in the peace talks over the timing of a possible agreement with Russia, writes The Economist. According to the magazine, one group of negotiators, led by the head of the Ukrainian president’s office, Kyrylo Budanov, believes that “Ukraine’s interests are best served by reaching an agreement as quickly as possible under American leadership.” Its representatives fear that the window for making key decisions could soon close.
Another part of the delegation, The Economist notes, is likely “still influenced by the former head of the president’s office, Andriy Yermak, who resigned amid a corruption scandal.” This wing is far less assertive and does not share the push for a rapid agreement.
The magazine adds that Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelensky, appears to be maneuvering between the two approaches while simultaneously holding his own views on how the negotiations should proceed.
The latest round of talks between Russia, Ukraine, and the United States on ending the Russia–Ukraine war is taking place in Geneva on February 17. The Russian delegation is led by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, while the Ukrainian side is headed by Kyrylo Budanov. According to TASS, the agenda covers at least five blocks—territorial, military, political, and economic issues, as well as “a wide range of security-related matters.”