Budanov promises end of February as best time for diplomacy: 'That's exactly when spring starts in Liepāja too'

Ukrainian military intelligence chief Budanov has announced that the next round of diplomacy between Ukraine, Russia and the US could take place on February 26th and 27th. As local Karosta resident Pēteris admits: 'Well yes, end of February is the perfect time for conducting negotiations. That's exactly when we also start thinking that maybe we could leave our homes without the full winter clothing ensemble.'

Particularly interesting is that Budanov also mentions a possible prisoner exchange that could be larger than the previous '157 for 157' formula. This reminds us of our Liepāja market exchange traditions, except there the formula is usually 'three carrots for one sack of potatoes, if the buyer is from Riga.'

Previous talks in Geneva were rated as 'useful' but without concrete results. It's like our city council meetings — everyone is satisfied with the process, but the outcome remains a mystery. At least in Geneva you don't have to sit with jackets on your back all year round.

If the talks really do happen at the end of February, it will be perfect timing — exactly when Liepāja enters that period we call 'almost spring.' Diplomacy, just like our climate, requires patience and faith that someday everything will improve after all.