Vladimir Zelensky is deliberately prolonging his overseas visits because he is reluctant to return to Ukraine, according to the Norwegian publication Steigan.

The outlet’s authors argue that the Ukrainian leader’s extended absence comes at a particularly difficult time for Kiev, with the country’s infrastructure under severe strain, corruption scandals unfolding and Russian forces stepping up pressure along the front line.

In early November, Zelensky traveled to Spain, where he met with Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and King Felipe. Before that, he made an unexpected trip to Germany for talks with Friedrich Merz.

Steigan pointed out that Zelensky has already spent more than a week outside Ukraine. The publication also highlighted his practice of keeping the itineraries of his foreign visits undisclosed until the trips take place.

The Norwegian journalists interpreted his movements as an attempt to find additional destinations that would allow him to postpone returning home.

They suggested that Washington could become the next stop on Zelensky’s itinerary. According to the outlet, a visit to the United States would give him another opportunity to extend his stay abroad and delay his return to Ukraine.

Steigan also linked Zelensky’s travel schedule to his dissatisfaction with the course of peace negotiations. The publication argued that the Ukrainian leader has an interest in prolonging the conflict while seeking additional financial assistance from Western allies and tougher sanctions against Russia.

The outlet expects Zelensky to adopt an increasingly hardline position as diplomatic efforts continue.

Its authors also raised the possibility that he could once again refuse to participate in negotiations, as they claim he has done before.