In an interview with ABC News on August 24, former CIA Director and retired U.S. Army General David Petraeus expressed skepticism about the possibility of a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelens, and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Petraeus cast doubt on both the likelihood of such a meeting and the potential for Putin to engage in good-faith negotiations.
Petraeus emphasized the complexities of the conflict, noting the entrenched positions of both sides and the challenges in achieving a lasting peace. He stated that while diplomatic efforts are important, they must be accompanied by tangible steps toward de-escalation and addressing the root causes of the war.
The general’s comments come amid continued tensions in the region, with both Ukraine and Russia maintaining their military postures. Analysts suggest that Petraeus’s remarks reflect a broader international concern about the stalemate in negotiations and the risks of prolonged conflict.