Zelensky declares unyielding stance on occupied territories
The recognition of Ukrainian territories occupied by Russia is impossible, but Kyiv is open to compromise, declared Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Key points to know:
- Zelensky emphasised that the acknowledgment of Ukrainian territories occupied by Moscow is impossible, but Kyiv is open to the possibility of compromise.
- The President of Ukraine noted that a just peace can only be achieved after all territories occupied by Russian forces are reclaimed.
- The issue of the size and composition of the Ukrainian army is another "red line" for Kyiv, meaning the authorities will strive to maintain the current parameters of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
As he emphasised, the issue of the occupied territories is one of the "geopolitical problems" that constitutes a "red line" for the Ukrainian government.
Zelensky on the territories occupied by Russia
— These are Ukrainian territories... this is one of the main red lines for us, in any case, this is a temporary occupation of territories — said Zelensky during a meeting with entrepreneurs from the Chernihiv region.
He added that a just peace can only be attained by regaining all territories occupied by Russian forces.
— But if it is possible to find a compromise so that the return of these territories occurs over time through diplomatic means, I think that, probably, as far as some territories are concerned, this will be the only way, — he noted. Ukrainian president emphasised that Kyiv will do everything possible to restore the territorial integrity of Ukraine.
Zelensky on Ukraine's "red lines"
Zelensky has repeatedly ruled out recognising territories occupied by Russia. On 19th March, he described this issue as a "red line." — It is only Ukraine that defines its red lines and its negotiating position. Ukrainian territories are temporarily occupied, and they will not be Russian, ever, — stressed the president. He also noted that the issue of territories will be one of the most sensitive and complex in future negotiations concerning the end of the war.
During the meeting, Zelensky reiterated that another "red line" is the issue of the size and composition of the Ukrainian army. He stressed that the authorities will take all possible actions to enhance, or at the very least maintain, the current numerical parameters of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. — A strong army is a priority for us. Therefore, these are the red lines - no reduction in the size of our army, — he emphasised.
