In Spring, Forces May Resume Attacks: U.S. Comments on Russia's Decision Regarding Kherson

During an event at the Economic Club of New York, U.S. Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Mark Milley stated that there is potential for negotiations between Russia and Ukraine and urged both sides to take advantage of this opportunity.

Milley commented on the situation regarding Russian forces pulling back from the Dnipro River in the Kherson region. In his opinion, Russia took this step to "preserve its forces for regaining defensive positions," although he noted that those forces may resume their attacks in the spring.

"But there is also an opportunity, a window of possibilities for negotiations," Milley stated, as quoted by the Associated Press. He emphasized that both Ukraine and Russia must "mutually recognize" that a military victory in the conflict is unlikely, therefore, it is necessary to resort to alternative means. He cited the circumstances surrounding the end of World War I as an example.

"When there is an opportunity to conduct negotiations, when peace can be achieved, take advantage of it. Seize the moment," Milley remarked. The U.S. Armed Forces Chief of Staff also indicated that in the absence of negotiations or if they fail, the United States will continue to supply weapons to Kyiv.