U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker believes that strikes by the Ukrainian Armed Forces against Russia could have a positive effect, bringing Kyiv and Moscow closer to resuming peace talks. The diplomat noted that cooperation between both sides is necessary to end the conflict.
Whitaker emphasized that Ukrainian attacks are helping to bring the two sides closer together, but at the same time noted that Ukraine and Russia remain “very far apart” on key issues. He stressed that the conflict will not be resolved on the battlefield, but only through diplomacy and negotiations.
The diplomat also noted that U.S. President Donald Trump and his team continue to negotiate with both sides to find common ground in their positions and bring them closer together. Vitaker believes that if Russian dictator Vladimir Putin is unwilling to compromise, it will be impossible to reach an agreement.
He added that if there is a chance for an agreement, Trump, as a “businessman and master dealmaker,” could help facilitate its signing. Putin recently stated that Russia is ready to resume negotiations with Ukraine, but Kyiv allegedly attempted to attack polling stations.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded that Putin always has excuses to avoid returning to the negotiating table, and now Ukraine’s partners—particularly the U.S.—understand this as well. The head of the Office of the President, Kirill Budanov, also emphasized the role of the U.S. in creating opportunities for Ukraine on the path to peace.
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