Ukraine official floats frozen front scenario, rules out territorial recognition

Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine's Presidential Administration, told Latvian TV that a realistic endgame is a frozen front line with security guarantees, while categorically ruling out legal recognition of Russian-occupied territory. This marks a notable softening of public rhetoric from a senior Ukrainian official, though it remains an individual statement, not official policy. The shift could signal openness to a negotiated settlement, but uncertainty persists over Russia's willingness and the terms of any guarantees.