Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov has said that Ukraine is ready for serious negotiations with Russia if Russia is genuinely prepared for such dialogue.

According to LRT, Budanov made the remarks while commenting on Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico’s statement that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy should first call Russian President Vladimir Putin to arrange a meeting.

“If we speak seriously, then if Russia is truly ready for a serious conversation, Ukraine will also be ready,” Budanov said.

He stressed that Ukraine has repeatedly stated its readiness to end the war and achieve peace.

According to Budanov, the cessation of hostilities should not be seen as weakness.

“Establishing peace is not weakness, but a proof of common sense,” he said.