Ukrainian Lawmaker Forecasts War Unlikely to End This Year.

The Situation in Ukraine and Prospects for Peace

According to TSN.ua: Roman Kostenko, Secretary of the Ukrainian Parliament's Committee on National Security, Defense, and Intelligence, has stated that an end to the war in Ukraine this year is improbable. He believes negotiations with Russia will yield no tangible results, and only a major internal crisis within Russia itself or critical losses for its military could alter this outlook.

'In my view, a scenario where the war ends this year is highly unlikely.' Roman Kostenko

Kostenko stressed the importance of preparing for the worst, noting that 'one must always hope for the worst because this is Russia.' He also pointed out that the negotiation process with Russia is disadvantageous for Ukraine. This assessment comes as Western military aid faces political delays, potentially impacting the battlefield.

Russia's Demands Complicate the Picture

Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has reiterated the Kremlin's ultimatums to Ukraine, which further complicates the situation. This indicates that significant diplomatic maneuvers are underway internationally, which could influence the conflict's trajectory.

Given these factors, questions about the war's potential conclusion remain open. Whether the conflict could end by 2026 currently has no clear answer. Kostenko's remarks underscore the complexity and unpredictability of the situation in Ukraine, where external and internal factors continue to shape the conflict. The rigid demands from Russia point to a lack of constructive dialogue, which may prolong hostilities. Thus, without substantial shifts on the political or military fronts, the prospect of a peaceful settlement appears distant.