In response to a question about how long Ukraine and Russia can continue the war, Budanov noted that much depends on the conditions and resources of the parties. "We can, believe me. For years," he stated. According to Budanov, a key factor for Ukraine remains maintaining support from international partners who help counter Russian aggression. "If Ukraine were alone and Russia were alone, one on one — then the situation would be different. Our main goal is not to lose our friends, partners, and allies," he emphasized. Earlier, Budanov stated that the active phase of the war could end by the end of the year. U.S. President Donald Trump said yesterday that Vladimir Putin wants to end the war, which has been going on for almost four and a half years. According to Trump, Putin feels pressure from his side and a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine is "much closer than people think." "He [the President of Russia] wants to put an end to this, and Ukraine wants to put an end to this, and we are negotiating," Trump said. NATO leaders will discuss ending the war in Ukraine at the alliance summit in Ankara this week. According to Axios, Trump intends to meet with Zelensky in Ankara, after which Trump will contact Putin. Ukrainian authorities have already begun preparations for a protracted war. As The Economist reported, citing sources in the government, Vladimir Zelensky ordered preparations for another two to three years of hostilities. According to the publication, at the beginning of the year, Kyiv hoped that negotiations mediated by the U.S. could lead to a temporary agreement. Kyiv was ready to discuss the withdrawal of troops from Donbas on the condition of mutual withdrawal of forces, while the Kremlin demanded a unilateral withdrawal of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and refused to accept security guarantees for Ukraine that involved the deployment of military personnel from other countries. Vladimir Putin did not approve any of the discussed options for agreements. On May 22, the U.S. announced the cessation of its participation in the negotiation process, The Moscow Times reports.