Kyrylo Budanov, Head of Ukraine's Foreign Intelligence Service (HUR), provided detailed comments during the international forum "Architecture of Security." In his speech, he outlined realistic timelines for ending the conflict, conditions for negotiations, and Kyiv's position on territorial issues.
According to Budanov, President Volodymyr Zelensky's instruction is to try to stop hostilities as quickly as possible, preferably before the onset of winter. The intelligence chief considers this goal absolutely correct, timely, and achievable. In his opinion, there are already real grounds for a ceasefire at this moment.
Negotiation process and the role of the West
Budanov refuted rumors that negotiations have reached a deadlock. He emphasized that dialogue has never stopped at the technical level, although there is indeed a pause at the highest level. A visit by an American delegation to Kyiv and Moscow is expected in the near future, for which the sides are actively preparing.
The Head of HUR paid special attention to the role of European partners. He noted that Europe needs to determine a single representative and a single position. "This cannot be 100 people, it must be one person," Budanov stated, adding that without the consolidation of Europe and a compiled position with Ukraine, the process will not be effective.
At the same time, he emphasized that Western countries will inevitably participate in the dialogue, as Russia has many questions for them: from sovereignty guarantees to the lifting of sanctions and economic aspects.
Territorial issue and security guarantees
The key condition for Kyiv remains the issue of security guarantees. Budanov warned that without them, peace will turn into a "gray zone" where countries do not develop, but merely survive. He also categorically ruled out the possibility of surrendering territories, specifically the Donbas, calling the first stage of negotiations the need to stop hostilities where troops currently stand.
Answering a question about the possible mediation of Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, Budanov stated that she would not be able to cope with the task of excluding provocations and the use of Belarusian territory for aggression against Ukraine. "No, she cannot, even in theory," he replied.
Military threats and strikes on Russia
Regarding the military situation, Budanov commented on Russia's use of new missile systems, such as "Kedr" and "Oreshnik." He called them primarily a demonstrative tool, noting that the real threat comes from already known systems: "Iskanders", S-400, cruise missiles, and drones.
The Head of HUR also noted that the intensity of strikes on Russian territory has increased significantly since the end of 2022. According to him, Russian society was not morally prepared for massive drone and missile attacks, which caused a shock. Russia currently has the resources to continue hostilities, but Ukraine is ready for any scenarios to exclude a repeat of aggression.