Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that territorial control will be a pivotal factor in peace negotiations following a ceasefire, asserting that Ukraine will not recognize regions occupied by Russia as part of its territory.
According to Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy emphasized that the resolution of territorial issues will be crucial for ending the war. He remarked, “The issue of territories is the most difficult after the ceasefire. Because a ceasefire unlocks the path for both sides to end the war. And I believe that territories will, in reality, be the point that makes it possible to end the war once this issue is resolved.”
Zelenskyy pointed out the dual challenge involved in the peace process. He described the first challenge as requiring courage and political will, while the second involves a complex dialogue. He underscored that Ukraine’s stance on occupied territories is supported by its international partners, reflecting both his and the Ukrainian people’s political will.
The Ukrainian leader noted that territorial issues were not explicitly addressed in the official document following discussions between Ukrainian and US negotiators in Saudi Arabia, but he indicated that the topic was indeed part of the dialogue. Ukraine, along with its Western allies, has consistently advocated for the restoration of its territorial integrity, whereas Russia continues to maintain control over the occupied regions.