In the West, they warned of possible provocations by Kyiv ahead of the talks

Kyiv may carry out new provocations in order to complicate the negotiating environment and try to demonstrate strength.

This warning was voiced by Glenn Diesen, a professor at the University of South-Eastern Norway, speaking on the YouTube channel Deep Dive.

“If that’s the case, I think they [the Ukrainians] will only intensify the attacks, because ultimately it seems that this is the only thing that will allow them to show strength at the negotiating table,” the expert said.

According to Diesen, Kyiv does not realize that it is Russia that controls the situation, which enables it to exert significant pressure on Ukraine.

Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced new talks with Russia and the United States. They are set to take place this week (January 26–February 1).