Bloomberg: Ukraine’s Allies Consider Ceasefire Options.

Some of Ukraine’s allies are starting to discuss possible ways to end the war with Russia, which worries other Western capitals about potential pressure on Ukraine to agree to a premature truce.

According to Bloomberg, as part of discussions on next year’s strategy, Western officials are seriously considering the possibility of ending the conflict through negotiations. However, the decision on negotiations rests with Kyiv, and no one is trying to pressure President Zelensky.

Zelensky noted that concessions to Russia were unjust and raised such demands as joining NATO and the EU, economic and security agreements, and supplies of more modern weapons. However, ensuring Ukraine’s security from future Russian attacks and mistrust of the Russian side regarding negotiations remain key issues. Also, the negotiations should avoid the bitter experience of the Minsk agreements, which did not bring previous results.

Some allies believe that the period between the US elections and the presidential inauguration could create an opportunity for a deal. However, others fear that Putin could take advantage of the uncertainty regarding US policy.

German Chancellor Scholz stated that now is the Time to discuss a quick end to the war. At the same time, the biggest issue remains helping Ukraine to restore its energy capacities before winter and resisting the Russian offensive.

According to a survey, most Ukrainians reject the idea of territorial concessions, but the number of opposing views decreases if there is a guarantee of NATO and EU membership.