Zelenskyy firmly emphasized: no one and never will withdraw Ukrainian troops from their native land
Ukraine continues to persistently defend its territorial integrity despite external pressures and internal challenges. During a period of tense diplomatic negotiations and crisis talks, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy issued a clear statement regarding the Ukrainian authorities’ intentions concerning the withdrawal of military forces from occupied territories. During his second recent phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump, the Ukrainian leader once again reaffirmed the country's unwavering stance, which insists on the inseparability of sovereign rights and the duty to protect its land. According to Zelenskyy, there are no ultimatums, pressures, or proposals for the voluntary withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the occupied regions, and such expectations cannot exist. “The withdrawal of our troops from territories belonging to Ukraine is not merely a matter of military tactics or diplomacy. It is our constitutional obligation, and we have no intention, nor will we ever compromise on this,” the president emphasized in a live broadcast during a briefing hosted by “Suspilne.” Zelenskyy stressed: “There can be no ultimatums, no conditions demanding that we abandon our people, our land, or our homes. This is our sacred duty and a legal norm.” Commenting on previous statements by the Russian side regarding the so-called “memorandum” — which Vladimir Putin mentioned earlier — Zelenskyy questioned any signs of its principle-based nature. “If Russia sets conditions for the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from our land, it means they do not want the war to end and are seeking to maintain control over the occupied territories,” the Ukrainian president is convinced. He ironized that the occupying country should understand: “Ukraine does not hesitate and will not compromise its sovereignty and territories under any pretexts or coercion.” Regarding diplomatic initiatives, Zelenskyy reported that U.S. leader Donald Trump, in confidence, shared his views, notably that Russia is capable and willing to make compromises. They discussed the possibility of resuming direct negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, focusing on achieving initial steps toward a peaceful settlement. Zelenskyy emphasized that he hopes to see a concrete first step—a ceasefire—which, in his opinion, would be an important signal to both sides about their readiness for serious changes in the conflict. The head of state added that Ukraine is awaiting an official document—the Russian version of the memorandum—for further analysis and discussion. He emphasized that the country will monitor the implementation of agreements and commitments, as it’s important not only to speak about peace but to take real steps toward achieving it. At a time when diplomacy and diplomatic talks are regaining their significance, Kyiv continues to stand firmly on its truth: Ukrainian lands will remain under the country’s sovereignty, and it will never doubt its duty to defend them by all necessary means.