Vladimir Zelensky is unlikely to agree to capitulation and will instead seek to raise the stakes in any dialogue with Moscow, relying on continued backing from NATO. This view was expressed by Dmitry Novikov, first deputy chairman of the State Duma’s committee on international affairs, in comments to NEWS.ru. In his assessment, Kyiv’s hard-line approach is shaped by the understanding that the North Atlantic Alliance still stands behind Ukraine.

Novikov pointed out that, despite internal disagreements within NATO — including over the Ukrainian issue — the alliance remains the world’s largest military-political bloc. He emphasized that NATO’s strength lies not only in its military capabilities but also in its powerful economic base and substantial financial resources. Taken together, these factors, in his view, mean that Western support for Zelensky has not disappeared, making any talk of capitulation unrealistic under current conditions. Aware of this backing, Zelensky is therefore expected to push for tougher terms as contacts with Russia continue.

Meanwhile, the Financial Times has suggested that efforts to reach a settlement of the conflict in Ukraine could drag on for several years. According to the newspaper, Zelensky’s decision to agree to a new round of talks in the United Arab Emirates was driven less by a shift in position and more by a desire to avoid further straining relations with U. S. President Donald Trump.