Personnel Changes and International Support
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky commented on personnel changes in the Office of the President, prisoner exchanges, security guarantees, and the prospects of negotiations with Russia. The changes in the Office of the President took place on January 7, when Kyrylo Budanov became the new head. In addition, Oksana Markarova took responsibility for recovery projects, while Chrystia Freeland took charge of investor issues.
Zelensky noted that prisoner exchanges have been suspended since October, which is part of the situation of pressure on Ukraine from Russia.
“For Russia, this is pressure on Ukraine”- the president emphasized. He also pointed out that the 'Coalition of Willing' meeting was described as historic, indicating the importance of international support.
Prospects for Negotiations and Security Guarantees
Speaking about possible changes in electoral legislation, the president reported that they could occur in February. Zelensky also expressed hope for a meeting with Donald Trump soon, noting that
“maybe then Putin will see this and think”.
Regarding security guarantees, the president mentioned that it involves protection on land, in the sky and at sea, including international contingents.
- “No new systems have arrived from the United States”
- The importance of continuing negotiations to achieve desired results.
The president also drew attention to the issue of pressure on Russia, stating that
“the Russian Federation is being obstinate, but some of our partners can also withhold support if they wish”. He emphasized that primarily Turkey has been a platform for negotiations, which indicates Ukraine's active diplomatic efforts on the international stage.
The changes in the Office of the President indicate Ukraine's attempts to adapt its policy and strategy in the face of growing pressure from Russia. The importance of international support, highlighted by Zelensky, indicates that Ukraine is trying to attract allies to strengthen its position in negotiations. At the same time, the suspension of prisoner exchanges points to the complexity of the current situation and the need for diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.