Media: The USA and Europe began to discuss the possibility of peace negotiations with Ukraine

US and European officials began discussing with the Ukrainian government the possibility of peace negotiations with Russia and their consequences. reported NBC channel, citing American officials familiar with the discussion.

According to the publication’s sources, they also discussed what Ukraine might have to give up in order to reach an agreement. Negotiations took place in October with the participation of the so-called contact group on the defense of Ukraine. The reason for the discussion was the fears of American and European officials about the deadlock in the fighting and the inability to continue to provide assistance to the Ukrainian side. The TV channel clarifies that the administration of US President Joe Biden is concerned that “Ukraine is running out of strength, while Russia’s seems to be endless.” Also, the Ukrainian authorities are experiencing difficulties with recruiting soldiers. The US government is also concerned that public attention has shifted towards the conflict between Israel and Hamas, which could complicate assistance to Ukraine. In addition, officials are not confident that the Ukrainian side will make a new attempt at a counteroffensive in the spring.

NBC, citing officials, said Ukraine likely has until the end or so before “more urgent” discussions about holding peace talks begin. National Security Council spokesman Adrien Watson told the TV channel that the decision on negotiations rests with Ukraine; a White House spokesman said that the United States participated in the discussion of the framework of the peace summit and “is currently not aware of any other conversations with Ukraine about negotiations.” .

Moscow has repeatedly emphasized that it remains ready for negotiations with Ukraine. But this process is hampered by a decree signed by Zelensky in October 2022 on the refusal to negotiate with Russia while Vladimir Putin is its president, the Kremlin explained.