Zelensky Rejects Putin’s Ultimatum on Donetsk: New Diplomatic Hurdles Toward Peace
In the tense diplomatic standoff surrounding the Ukraine-Russia conflict, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made it clear that he will not agree to any compromises that could threaten Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
According to leading international news agencies, notably Reuters, during a phone conversation with U.S.
President Donald Trump, Zelensky refused to accommodate Russia’s demands to, on the one hand, agree to a ‘frozen’ conflict, and on the other, to cede control of the rest of Donetsk to Russia.
It is important to highlight that this diplomatic stance was a response to Russia’s proposal to halt active military operations in exchange for recognition of occupation of certain Ukrainian territories.
Reuters sources report that during the talks, Trump informed Zelensky and European leaders that Putin had suggested ‘freezing’ the front lines, but Ukrainian leadership made it absolutely clear that they would not accept any freezing of the conflict at the expense of their territories.
Moreover, it was reported that European leaders were invited to participate in discussions on Monday to deliberate further actions regarding the conflict.
Last Saturday, the U.S.
newspaper The New York Times revealed that Ukrainian diplomats and their European counterparts strongly opposed any territorial concessions involving Donetsk and Luhansk, citing their strategic importance and resource wealth.
The meeting between U.S.
President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin concluded without any formal agreements or ceasefire declarations, despite claims of ‘significant progress.’ Trump publicly stated after the meeting that he had negotiated with Putin on land exchanges and that Zelensky ‘must accept it.’ Media reports indicate that Trump urged Kyiv and European capitals to consider compromises, arguing that Russia seeks an immediate resolution of the conflict and that ending hostilities would be in everyone’s best interest.
Prior to his negotiations with Putin, Trump reportedly conveyed messages to Ukraine and European leaders that Russia wants to move beyond temporary pauses and focus on final negotiations, which could have significant implications for the conflict’s future.
The situation remains uncertain, but Ukrainian leaders are clearly committed to defending their territorial integrity and reject any territorial sacrifices that would undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty.