Ending the war in 2026 unrealistic — Kuleba
Former Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba gave a stark forecast on the war with Russia in an interview with Ukrainska Pravda.
He is convinced that there is no chance for the war to end this year, despite intensified diplomatic efforts. The next surge of negotiations is expected at the end of February, but no ceasefire agreements will be reached by the end of winter, as Russia deliberately targets Ukraine’s energy sector and economy ahead of the cold season.
Kuleba emphasized significant progress in coordination between Ukraine, Europe, and the United States. He noted that if the current diplomatic effort fails, the next attempt will start “just a meter from the finish line,” albeit the most difficult one.
At the same time, according to Kuleba, Putin plans to fight “to the last breath” to retain power — this is his “mission in history.” Economic pressure weighs on Russia but is insufficient to change the Kremlin’s position, with China serving as a backup.
Putin will not stop without full control over Donetsk Oblast, advancing simultaneously on the front line and in the air. Negotiations will continue in the background without any real breakthroughs.
