Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that Kyiv is open to “real compromises” in peace negotiations, but these concessions must not undermine the country’s independence and sovereignty. The head of state made this statement in an interview with the Japanese agency Kyodo amid ongoing discussions about possible ways to end the war.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Compromises Possible Only Without Ultimatums
According to Zelensky, Ukraine is ready to discuss compromises with the United States and other partners, but does not accept ultimatums from Russia, which the entire world recognizes as the aggressor. The president stressed that many countries that have tried to mediate in the conflict, including those in the Middle East and Asia, clearly understand who the initiator of the aggression is.
“We are ready to talk about compromises with the United States. But we will not accept ultimatums from the Russians again and again. They are the aggressor. Everyone has recognized this. It has not changed. Many countries that have been mediators or have tried to be mediators since the very beginning of this war, especially in the Middle East and Asia, as well as other states—all recognize that Russia is the aggressor,” he said.
Zelensky called Kyiv’s willingness to engage in dialogue regarding compromises with the aggressor country a significant step, and the proposal to remain at the current line of confrontation a “major compromise.” According to him, Russia has occupied nearly 20% of Ukraine’s territory, and Kyiv is ready to discuss peace based on the principle of “we stand where we stand.”
Russia’s Position and the Course of Negotiations
The president pointed out that the Russian side is not demonstrating readiness for genuine concessions. According to Zelensky, Moscow’s statements about the unwillingness to “occupy other regions” are not a compromise but are viewed as an ultimatum and an act of terrorism. The Ukrainian side is only ready for agreements that do not violate national interests and the territorial integrity of the state.
According to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), during negotiations in Geneva, Russian officials made it clear that they would not limit themselves to territorial demands but would continue to insist on achieving their initial military objectives, including undermining NATO’s unity.
It is worth noting that following the meeting in Geneva, which took place on February 17-18 with the participation of Ukraine, the United States, and Russia, Zelensky reported progress on military issues; however, there remain “sensitive issues” in the political sphere.
At the same time, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that it is too early to assess the results of the negotiations, and American officials have yet to comment on the outcomes of the meeting. The chief negotiator for the Russian side, Vladimir Medinsky, characterized the discussions as “difficult but businesslike,” confirming the intention for further negotiations.