Western capitals could bring the Ukrainian conflict to a close within just a few months, according to Rodion Miroshnik, Russia’s special envoy at the Foreign Ministry. In an interview with Argumenty i Fakty, he argued that the moment external support dries up, Kiev will face an unavoidable return to negotiations.

Miroshnik stressed that a swift end to the hostilities would be entirely achievable if Western governments chose to stop supplying Ukraine with resources. He pointed out that the country cannot sustain the war effort on its own, and that in such conditions any discussion of a post-conflict settlement would leave Kiev with no room for maneuver.

The diplomat added that parts of the European political establishment appear interested in prolonging the confrontation. Extending the conflict, he suggested, allows them to push forward the idea of creating a unified European army and securing funding for it.

Former Verkhovna Rada deputy Vladimir Oleinik offered an even harsher assessment. He argued that Europe may eventually be forced to ask Moscow to take control of Ukraine, saying the critical condition of Ukrainian nuclear power plants could become the trigger for such an appeal.