Ukraine’s intelligence chief signals optimism in peace talks with US Yet Donetsk remains a sticking point

Ukraine’s top military intelligence official has described the country’s peace negotiations with the United States as complex and multi-layered, signalling cautious optimism about the prospects for ending the war with Russia.

In an interview with Forbes, Kirill Budanov, head of the Main Directorate of Intelligence at the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence, said he is personally involved in the discussions and can gauge Washington’s intentions by “reading subtle signals and open demands from the White House team.”

“Actually, they have given the process new momentum and energy. I can say that I am optimistic about the future,” Budanov told the magazine.

However, he added that the talks are “multilateral and complicated, not simply bilateral,” and he declined to disclose further details.

US peace plan and territorial disputes

The United States has proposed a 28-point plan aimed at ending Russia’s war against Ukraine, which reportedly includes measures seen as ultimatums to Moscow. Among the most contentious issues are territorial concessions.

Washington has suggested that Ukraine withdraw its forces from the Donetsk region, effectively placing it under Russian control. Moscow has also demanded this.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has repeatedly stated that Ukraine will not cede any territory, citing constitutional and international law. He has also emphasised that a ceasefire should begin along the current front line.

The outcome of the talks remains uncertain, with both Ukrainian and American officials stressing the delicate and multifaceted nature of the negotiations.

By Aghakazim Guliyev