Head of the Office of the President Kyrylo Budanov says Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil infrastructure influence the negotiation process. He also expects Russia to present new approaches in upcoming talks.
Budanov made these remarks during a briefing and in interviews with Ukrainian media.
Strikes on Russian refineries strengthen Ukraine’s position
Kyrylo Budanov stressed that Ukraine will not stop striking Russian energy infrastructure during the war. He said attacks on Russian oil terminals directly affect Ukraine’s diplomatic leverage.
“We will hear a lot of new things at the next negotiations with them (the Russians – ed.). In any case, this significantly strengthens our position and does not make it weaker”.
He added that Ukraine must use all available tools to strengthen its position.
At the same time, Budanov noted that the Middle East conflict partly benefits Russia due to rising oil prices and a partial easing of sanctions pressure.
Ukraine maintains contacts with Russia on exchanges
Kyrylo Budanov confirmed that Ukraine and Russia maintain contact, particularly on humanitarian issues.
He said these contacts focus on practical matters, including prisoner exchanges:
“We hope. A day before or a day after (Easter – ed.), but it is possible. We all expect it”.
Negotiations and a future leaders’ meeting
According to Budanov, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will eventually have to meet in person to finalize decisions on the war.
“Leaders must put the final point. We hope for that. …You understand that we cannot put a final point, either positive or negative, without a personal meeting (Putin and Zelenskyy – ed.) – and the Russians understand that too. Believe me, it will all happen eventually”.
EU funding negotiations continue
Budanov also commented on complex international negotiations over financial support for Ukraine, including a €90 billion tranche.
He said the process continues but remains difficult and multi-layered.
Context
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia seeks to expand its military presence along Ukraine’s borders, including from Belarus, while continuing pressure on the front line and relying on energy revenues that sanctions could limit.
Earlier, The Ukrainian Review reported that Volodymyr Zelenskyy said at the Bucha Summit 2026 that Russia aims to seize Donbas within two months while increasing pressure on the United States.
