Military expert and retired First Rank Captain Vasiliy Dandikin suggested that the conflict in Ukraine could end in 2026.

Earlier, former Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmitriy Kuleba said that ending the conflict in 2026 was unlikely, although he allowed for the possibility of a ceasefire.

Dandikin said the outcome will largely depend on the actions of Russian troops and commanders, as well as on the parameters of a potential peace plan. According to him, Russia has its own proposals, and if they are taken into account amid the current offensive, predictions about a prolonged conflict may not come true.

The expert stressed that a ceasefire allowing Kiev to regroup, rearm, and restart hostilities should be ruled out. At the same time, he did not exclude the possibility of peace if it is achieved on Russia’s terms. Overall, Dandikin described his expectations for the current year as positive.