Zelensky refuses to cede territory to Russia: there is no legal or moral right to do so
In a further escalation of Ukraine's stance rejecting any compromises that infringe upon national sovereignty, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy categorically affirmed that Kyiv has no right, either legal or moral, to cede any part of Ukrainian territory to Moscow. This statement comes at a sensitive time, as the international arena witnesses intense diplomatic activity aimed at ending the ongoing Russian invasion, amidst mounting pressure to reach a negotiated settlement.
Legal and ethical obstacles to waiving
During an online press conference, Zelenskyy explained that the Ukrainian constitution and domestic laws, as well as international law, categorically prohibit any concessions of national territory. "Are we even considering ceding territory?" the Ukrainian president stated. "We have no legal right to do so, neither under Ukrainian law, nor our constitution, nor international law. And we have no moral right either." This statement reflects the Ukrainian leadership's commitment to the country's unity within its internationally recognized 1991 borders, including Crimea and the eastern regions.
Land issue in the negotiations
The territorial issue remains the major obstacle to any potential peaceful settlement. While Russia insists on retaining the territories it seized and considers part of its own territory following referendums not recognized by the international community, Ukraine categorically rejects this. Zelenskyy noted that the United States is trying to broker a settlement, but added, "Russia insists that we must give up territory, but we don't want to give up anything. We are fighting for it, as you well know." He emphasized that the territorial problems remain "difficult" and no solution has yet been reached.
Security guarantees and the international role
Alongside the border issue, the question of "security guarantees" stands out as one of the most complex outstanding issues. Kyiv seeks concrete guarantees to prevent a recurrence of Russian aggression in the future, whether through NATO membership or binding bilateral defense agreements. In this context, Zelenskyy stated, "It is now important to know what our partners would be prepared to do in the event of renewed Russian aggression. Currently, we have not received any answer to this question.".
Intense diplomatic activity and American proposals
This stance comes amid an intensive diplomatic tour by the Ukrainian president. Following his meetings in London, he traveled to Brussels for talks with NATO and European Commission leaders, and is scheduled to continue his tour with a visit to Italy. Zelensky revealed that Ukrainian and European officials are currently studying a "20-point" proposal received from the American side as a proposed solution. He indicated that Kyiv will prepare counter-proposals to send to Washington, suggesting that negotiations remain in a state of flux with no end in sight.
