Budanov revealed that there are informal channels of communication with Russia for negotiations
Kirill Budanov, head of the Office of the President, stated that he has access to informal channels in Russia that are assisting Ukraine in the negotiations.
He said this in an interview with The Times.
According to Budanov, his previous experience as head of the Main Intelligence Directorate allows him to better understand the Russian side, particularly its strengths and weaknesses, as well as the negotiators’ “red lines.”
“We’ve been dealing with them for many years. So, believe me, I know how to talk to them,” he said.
The Times notes that while working in Ukrainian intelligence, Budanov established a network of indirect contacts within Russia, which were previously used for negotiations on prisoner exchanges and may now be useful in the context of peace talks.
As a reminder, Budanov stated that Russia continues to attempt to eliminate him even during negotiations.
Ukraine is ready for dialogue with Russia provided Moscow is genuinely committed to serious talks, but such meetings require careful preparation. Any direct contacts between the leaders of the warring parties do not occur spontaneously or via regular telephone communication.
