Chaly: We will get through the winter, and real negotiations are possible in February-April, provided the sanctions are effective.

Ukraine prepares for winter 2025-2026 amid negotiation prospects

Former Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States, Valeriy Chaly, expressed the opinion that Ukraine will be able to survive the winter of 2025-2026, but it does not have the time to continue the war for another couple of years.

Valeriy Chaly, who served as the Ukrainian Ambassador to the United States from 2015 to 2019, stated that Ukrainians have adapted to the difficult situation created by constant Russian missile strikes on critical infrastructure. He emphasized that despite challenging conditions, Ukrainians have developed resilience, which gives hope for successfully overcoming the upcoming winter.

According to the diplomat, if economic and energy sanctions against Russia take effect, a window of opportunity for real negotiations may open at the beginning of next year, presumably in February-April 2026. Chaly noted that such an opportunity always arises after winter cycles of military operations, and the current situation in Europe encourages more active steps in this direction.

Chaly also pointed out that Kyiv has little time for maneuvering in the conditions of a protracted conflict, emphasizing the need to take advantage of the opportunities that arise to achieve peace. He indicated that Europe should more seriously consider the possibility of pressuring Russia with sanctions.

Notably, on December 3, NATO Secretary General Rutte noted that in the event of unsuccessful negotiations or their prolongation, the best way to pressure Russia lies in continuing military assistance to Ukraine and strengthening sanctions against Moscow.