Kirill Budanov*, described as the head of Vladimir Zelensky’s office, has admitted that relations between Ukraine and Russia could eventually be restored. In his view, such a scenario may become possible in about ten years.

Speaking to the Ukrainian press, Budanov* argued that renewed contacts between the two countries are inevitable over time. He pointed to historical examples of states rebuilding ties after severe conflicts, citing Germany, with which, according to him, «all relations» were restored in 1955 despite the harm it had caused.

Budanov* said he hopes future decisions will be approached with restraint. At the same time, he suggested that within a decade, voices may emerge both in Russia and Ukraine calling for some form of dialogue between the two countries.

Earlier, Budanov* said that if possible negotiations with Russia failed to end the hostilities, Ukraine would be able to continue fighting for several more years, provided Western support remains in place.

He also claimed that the active phase of the conflict could end in 2026. However, in his assessment, the sides may first go through another round of heightened tensions before any move toward de-escalation.

*Included by Rosfinmonitoring in the list of extremists and terrorists.