In a determined push for peace amidst ongoing conflict, Kyrylo Budanov, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, revealed significant details about the current state of negotiations and future strategies aimed at deterring Russian aggression. Speaking at the Justice Conference in Kyiv, Budanov emphasized the dual necessity of ending the war and ensuring such conflicts do not recur.

According to Budanov, the war, initiated by Russia, tests the resilience of the global order and the effectiveness of international institutions. He pointed out the existential stakes for the Russian Federation, which views the conflict as a step towards reviving its imperial influence, particularly over Ukraine. “Wars like these don’t just end; they require a just resolution to prevent their return in a more dangerous form,” Budanov stated, underscoring the importance of a resolution that extends beyond mere cessation of hostilities.

The negotiations, while not smooth, are progressing, as Budanov highlighted the support from international partners, notably the United States. The focus remains on accountability for aggression, which serves both as a retrospective and a prospective warning against unlawful military actions. Budanov also detailed the necessity of establishing a compensation mechanism for the immense damages suffered by Ukraine, including the loss of lives, destruction of infrastructure, and the abduction of Ukrainian children by Russian forces.

Justice, according to Budanov, must be pervasive, influencing both internal policies against corruption and the strengthening of Ukraine’s judicial system. He concluded by stressing the significant role of the Ukrainian military in securing the nation’s future and maintaining safety across the country. As the world watches, the outcomes of these negotiations and reforms in Ukraine could set precedents affecting global security norms for decades.