In a conversation with a journalist, Zelensky supported such an initiative, noting that it could contribute to increased voter turnout and "make the results less disputable from Russia's side." The president emphasized that for this to be achieved, both sides must come to an honest agreement. "I do not think it is right to put an unfavorable agreement to a referendum," added Volodymyr Zelensky.
According to information provided by Shuster, Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Ukrainian president's office, has been engaged in lengthy negotiations with Zelensky's advisors regarding the legal and practical aspects necessary for the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from certain regions of Donbas. One Ukrainian official involved in these discussions noted that they are approaching this issue creatively and are looking for ways that the Ukrainian people could accept.
The publication also reports that some members of Zelensky's team express concern that the opportunity for a peace agreement may quickly disappear. Those close to the president fear that this could lead to a protracted conflict for many years.
