Kirill Budanov reported on informal channels of communication with the Russian Federation for negotiations
Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov stated that he has access to informal channels in Russia that can assist Ukraine in the negotiation process. He said this in an interview with The Times.
According to Budanov, his previous experience as head of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine helps him better understand the Russian side, in particular its strengths and weaknesses, as well as the “red lines” of the negotiators.
“We have been dealing with them for many years. So, believe me, I know how to talk to them,” Budanov said.
The Times writes that while working for Ukrainian intelligence, Budanov built a system of indirect contacts inside Russia. Previously, such channels were used for negotiations on the exchange of prisoners, and now they can be useful in the context of a possible peace dialogue.
Budanov also stated that Russia continues to try to eliminate him even during the negotiations. At the same time, according to him, Ukraine is ready for a dialogue with Russia, provided that Moscow is sincerely prepared for a serious conversation.
Such contacts require careful preparation, because direct meetings between the leaders of warring states do not occur spontaneously or through ordinary telephone communication.
