Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated in an interview with Ukrainian media that a “window of opportunity” exists to achieve results in peace negotiations to end the war, closing by 2027. According to him, all participants in the negotiating process working on conflict resolution are striving to meet this exact timeframe. This was reported by RBC-Ukraine.
Political Landscape and Timelines
The head of state explained that next year a “change in the political landscape” may occur in Europe, while in the US, changes are already underway by his observation. “And therefore today, indeed, this opportunity, this window of opportunity, when all those participants who are currently engaged in the negotiating process, who really want to get a result even before '27,” Zelenskyy emphasized. He linked the urgency to the fact that it is extremely important for the American side to achieve a result in the current year, and, by his assessment, Washington “really, very much wants this.”
Negotiation Progress and Atmosphere Assessment
Commenting on recent contacts, Zelenskyy suggested that one of the negotiators reported no negativity in the conversation. “I don't know all the details, I think there were still a little bit of Russia's stories there, but we no longer pay attention, during this time we can go out to rest, have a cup of coffee. But nevertheless, what is important is that the Americans flew off with specifics to Putin,” the president said. He added that he “would really like” the US special envoys to return to Dublin with specifics, although he admitted: “he doesn't really believe in it, but there is still hope.”
Dialogue Format and Washington's Role
Zelenskyy noted that much depends on the format the American side chooses for dialogue with the Russian side. “We understand who we are dealing with, that they will not be positive about everything — yes, but that there can be progress — yes,” he stated, emphasizing that he does not know exactly which format will be chosen. At the same time, the president expressed confidence that Ukraine “will do everything” to achieve a result by the end of the year.
Upcoming Meeting in Dublin
On November 12, 2026, Zelenskyy will meet in Dublin with US special representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Before this meeting, the US delegation will visit Russia to hold talks with Vladimir Putin. Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov confirmed that the US special envoys will meet with Putin in the first half of the day. Thus, a key series of contacts will take place within the next 24 hours, upon which, according to Kyiv's assessment, the future dynamics of the negotiating track largely depend.
