President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Ukraine does not trade its territories. He announced this at a joint press conference with the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. The head of state responded to Putin's demands regarding territory exchanges, reminding that Russia failed to capture the entire Donbas during the 12 years of war.
Putin has many demands, but we do not know them all. If there are really so many, it will take a long time. We need to ceasefire and work on a final agreement.
According to Zelensky, real negotiations can start at the front line. The contact line is marked as the best for talks. The president also noted that the Constitution of Ukraine does not allow for territorial losses or land trading.
Sanctions and Alternatives
Zelensky emphasized that as long as Russia does not agree to a trilateral meeting, Ukraine will demand new sanctions. He also revealed an alternative plan of action if negotiations cannot be conducted or do not yield results – Ukraine will strengthen sanctions against Russia.
So far, Russia shows no signs that a trilateral meeting will take place. If Russia refuses, then we need new sanctions.
Sources revealed that Putin demands guarantees for the Russian language and church from Ukraine. Also, Zelensky agrees that the goal should be a peace agreement, not a temporary truce, as noted by Trump, Putin, and Zelensky in recent negotiations.
During the joint press conference with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the unwavering stance on the issue of the country's territorial integrity, as well as pointed out the readiness to strengthen sanctions against Russia in case of failure in negotiations or refusal for a trilateral meeting.