Ukraine leader defends national territory while allies push for progress in peace efforts
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made it clear that he has no legal or moral right to surrender any Ukrainian territory to Russia, even as new international conversations about peace continue to intensify.
Speaking after a high-level meeting in London with Sir Keir Starmer, Emmanuel Macron, and Friedrich Merz, Zelensky welcomed fresh commitments of European support. The gathering underscored a shared belief that Ukraine must be strengthened against ongoing attacks and growing winter hardships.
Debate over territory remains the biggest obstacle
Recent discussions between United States and Ukrainian officials produced a 20-point proposal aimed at ending Vladimir Putin’s invasion. Yet the most difficult question remains unresolved: what should happen to the occupied territories in the eastern Donbas.
Zelensky addressed the issue directly, asking, “Do we envision ceding territories?”
He answered immediately. “We have no legal right to do so under Ukrainian law, our constitution and international law. And we don’t have any moral right either.”
Trump pushes back on Ukraine’s position
Former US President Donald Trump expressed frustration with Zelensky, accusing him of failing to review the latest draft of the proposed peace plan. Trump added that Putin was supposedly “fine with it”, a claim likely to raise eyebrows in both Kyiv and European capitals.
The differing interpretations highlight how politically charged any peace agreement remains, especially when Ukraine insists that territorial concessions are off the table.
European leaders double down on support
During the talks at No 10, leaders discussed what they called “positive progress” on plans to use frozen Russian assets to bolster Ukraine’s resilience. Downing Street emphasized that Europe must continue to stand firmly with Ukraine, especially as relentless attacks leave thousands of civilians without heat or electricity.
The meeting ended with a renewed sense of resolve, but also a recognition that the road to peace will be difficult, layered, and deeply political.
Conclusion
As global leaders debate the future of Ukraine, one message from Kyiv remains steady. Territorial surrender is not an option. If you want to stay updated on these fast-changing developments, follow, share.