Kyiv: The next round of negotiations between Russia and Ukraine is expected to take place on February 26-27, as announced by Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine's presidential office.

According to Anadolu Agency, Budanov stated that the discussions are nearing a critical point where both parties must decide whether to continue the conflict or move towards peace.

In addition, Budanov mentioned the possibility of a prisoner exchange occurring within the week, as reported by Ukrinform. "We are working on it. I hope that it will happen this week," he remarked, noting that the number of prisoners exchanged would be "significant," surpassing previous exchanges. However, he did not provide further specifics.

Last week, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed hopes for the talks to occur before the month's end. He emphasized the importance of having European countries present, including France, Great Britain, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland as the host nation.

The upcoming discussions follow a third round of peace talks held in Geneva, Switzerland, on February 17-18. These meetings succeeded earlier rounds conducted in Abu Dhabi earlier this month and in January.