Negotiations between Russia and Ukraine are entering what Ukrainian officials describe as a decisive phase, with another round of talks expected in the coming days as diplomatic efforts continue alongside the ongoing war.

Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s presidential office, said the next round of negotiations could take place in late February, The Caspian Post reports, citing RBC-Ukraine.

According to him, the dialogue is approaching a point at which both sides will need to make fundamental decisions about whether to continue the conflict or move toward a negotiated settlement.

Budanov emphasized that the upcoming discussions may prove pivotal for the trajectory of the war, signaling either further escalation or a shift toward de-escalation and peace efforts.

In addition to political negotiations, humanitarian issues remain on the agenda. Budanov noted that a new prisoner exchange between the two countries is under preparation and could take place soon. “We are working on it. I hope that it will happen this week,” he said, adding that the number of prisoners involved would be “significant” and larger than in the previous exchange. No additional details were disclosed.

Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he expected a new round of talks with Russia before the end of February. He stressed the importance of broader international participation, particularly from European partners.

“It is important that Europeans are present - France, Great Britain, Germany, Italy, and also Switzerland as the host country,” Zelenskyy said, underscoring Kyiv’s view that European nations should play an active role in shaping any potential settlement.

Recent diplomatic efforts have included multiple rounds of discussions in different locations. Russia and Ukraine previously held a round of talks in Geneva, Switzerland, following earlier meetings in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. These sessions focused on ceasefire conditions, humanitarian arrangements, and broader frameworks for a possible peace agreement.

While no comprehensive breakthrough has yet been announced, the continuation of negotiations and planned prisoner exchanges indicate that diplomatic channels remain open. Observers note that the coming rounds of talks could clarify whether the sides are prepared to compromise or whether the conflict will persist into a prolonged phase.