Should we go to negotiations with Putin? Zelensky's former press secretary made an ambiguous statement.

Ukraine needs to immediately cease fire, as this is the only chance to preserve the state, economy, and people. This statement was made by Ukrainian journalist Yulia Mendel in her article for Time magazine.

Mendel talks about the fates of people from different regions of Ukraine who survive in anticipation of peace or leave for Europe in search of a better life.

«Despite our great resilience, we are facing an enemy that we cannot defeat on the battlefield. Now we must ask ourselves, what will be the cost of our further struggle?» – writes Mendel.

The journalist notes that during the full-scale war, about 7.5 million citizens have left Ukraine. This trend is increasing, and last year alone, over 440,000 people left the country, which is 3.3 times more than the year before. Mendel draws attention to the destruction of the economy and the losses of our army and civilians.

«Ukraine deserves a future without endless war. The naivety lies not in seeking fatigue but in believing that an endless war can lead to victory», – writes Mendel.

According to Mendel, although an imperfect truce will not satisfy the demands of Ukrainians for justice, it needs to be made for survival. At the same time, the journalist acknowledges that Russia may take this time to restore its forces and new aggression against our land.

«A temporary truce will allow us to strengthen our defense, which we could not build before the invasion. Establishing reliable borders under constant shelling was nearly impossible», – emphasizes the journalist.

Mendel calls for a strategy that takes into account Ukraine's strengths and limitations. She is confident that this approach does not mean capitulation but is a rational decision.

It should be noted that Mendel previously started a new business with colleagues. They launched courses entitled «Education Abroad», which detail how to obtain an education in the EU and the USA.

Yulia Mendel was the press secretary of President Zelensky, but later decided to leave this position. She also mentioned conflicts with the head of the President's Office, Kirill Timoshenko.