Zelensky Firmly Rejects Territorial Concessions to Russia in Peace Negotiations

Kyiv:

President Volodymyr Zelensky declared on Monday that Ukraine possesses neither legal nor moral authority to surrender territory to Russia in any potential agreement aimed at concluding Moscow's invasion, which has persisted for almost four years.

"Regarding the possibility of ceding territories, we have no legal right under Ukrainian law, our constitution, and international law. Furthermore, we lack any moral right to do so," Zelensky stated during an online press briefing.

Zelensky acknowledged that the United States is attempting to broker a compromise on this contentious issue.

"Russia continues to demand territorial concessions, but we remain unwilling to surrender any land. As you well know, we are fighting precisely for this principle."

"The territorial questions present significant challenges, and thus far no compromise has materialized."

Previously, a high-ranking official familiar with the negotiations informed AFP that the question of Ukrainian territory constitutes the "most problematic" aspect of the discussions.

Security guarantees for Kyiv have also emerged as a major point of contention in these talks.

"The crucial question is understanding what actions our partners would be prepared to take should Russia launch new aggression. Currently, we have received no response to this inquiry," Zelensky explained.

Following his meetings in London, Zelensky proceeded to Brussels for discussions with leaders of NATO and the European Commission.

"Subsequently, during the night, approximately at 1:00 am (0000 GMT) or midnight, I will depart for Italy," he stated during his press conference.

Zelensky indicated that Ukrainian and European officials "will work through these 20 points" received from the American side, with counter-proposals potentially ready by Tuesday evening for submission to Washington.