Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his position regarding proposals for the establishment of a demilitarized zone in the vicinity of Ukraine, particularly in the context of discussions with American and international diplomats. According to him, the idea of withdrawing troops 15 kilometers from both sides is premature and depends on the monitoring format, as well as raises questions about the security of Ukrainian cities such as Kherson.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Zelensky’s Position on the Demilitarized Zone
Zelensky noted that no one has officially proposed the creation of a buffer zone or demilitarized zone to Ukraine, and that these issues are actively discussed by various parties, including intelligence agencies. He added:
“Regarding the demilitarized zone, the buffer zone, the withdrawal of troops. I have heard these questions in the media, and not only in the media. From many different people and many different intelligence agencies. Officially, no one has proposed anything like this to Ukraine”
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The president emphasized that the conversation about withdrawing troops 15 kilometers from both sides is complicated by issues of control and security, especially in cities like Kherson. He stated that in the event of such a withdrawal, the city would lose Ukrainian control, which is unacceptable considering the experience of 2014, when the enemy constantly dug in and moved into the area.
Discussion on Peace and Ceasefire
Zelensky also stressed the importance of maintaining territorial integrity and the security of Ukrainian cities, noting that a retreat of 15 kilometers could lead to an escalation of war in regions such as Kharkiv, Sumy, and others. He stated, “Right now, thousands of people have died to protect Pokrovsk. There are just a couple of kilometers to Pokrovsk. If we agree to a buffer zone and retreat 15 kilometers, cities like Kherson, Kharkiv, and Sumy will seem to have peace, while they will continue to experience war. Because artillery will reach them”.
Earlier, U.S. Special Representative Keith Kellogg reported on the possible establishment of a 30-kilometer demilitarized zone in the conflict area, with 15 kilometers from the line of contact on both sides. A complete and unconditional ceasefire is scheduled to begin in Kyiv and other cities on May 12, supported by leaders from several European countries and the U.S. This decision was made during a meeting of the “coalition of the willing” involving the presidents of France, Poland, the United Kingdom, and the Chancellor of Germany.
Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine insists on an unconditional ceasefire without any conditions and noted that the U.S. supports this position. After the negotiations, the leaders discussed further steps towards achieving peace, including a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump.