Ex-MI6 chief predicts Ukraine-Russia peace talks could start in 2027

Former MI6 chief John Sawers stated that peace talks between Ukraine and Russia may begin in 2027, while a serious agreement before spring of that year is unlikely. He said only a reduction in combat intensity is currently possible. Sawers predicted a difficult winter for both nations, but accumulating military and economic losses could create conditions for negotiations next year. He emphasized that a stable peace is nearly impossible while Vladimir Putin remains Russia's president. The comments came as US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner visited Moscow with a proposal to end the war. Sawers noted growing internal Russian questions about the war's cost, while also acknowledging political challenges facing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.