Zelensky Asserts Ukraine Will Not Compromise on Territory in Ceasefire Discussions
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Synopsis
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky affirmed that while Kyiv is pursuing a ceasefire, it will not yield any territorial compromises to Russia during talks. He emphasized Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity are non-negotiable, highlighting the need for Russia to halt its attacks for discussions to progress.
Key Takeaways
- Zelensky insists on Ukraine's territorial integrity.
- Future negotiations depend on Russia stopping its attacks.
- Ukraine is prepared to send a delegation to the US for talks.
- Finland supports Ukraine's independence and sovereignty.
- Recent attacks by Russian forces have caused significant damage.
Helsinki, March 19 (NationPress) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on Wednesday that while Kyiv is pursuing a ceasefire, it will absolutely not entertain any territorial compromises with Russia.
On Tuesday afternoon, Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelensky arrived in Finland for a brief official visit, where he met with Finnish President Alexander Stubb.
During a joint press conference after their meeting on Wednesday, Zelensky highlighted that Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity are non-negotiable when inquired about the 'red lines' in possible armistice discussions.
He reiterated that a ceasefire would be established in the future, but Ukraine would not comply with Russia's territorial demands.
Zelensky refrained from discussing specifics regarding a phone call between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, as reported by Xinhua. He mentioned he would wait to speak directly with Trump before making any comments.
In a call on Tuesday, Trump and Putin talked about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and potential methods to restore bilateral relationships.
While future negotiations between Ukrainian and Russian representatives are not entirely off the table, Zelensky emphasized that discussions could only advance if Russia halted its offensive actions. He also reaffirmed Ukraine's readiness to send a delegation to the United States for ceasefire talks.
Stubb reiterated Finland's unwavering support for Ukraine, emphasizing that Ukraine must emerge from the conflict as an independent nation.
Stubb further asserted that alongside the teams from Ukraine, Russia, and the US, there should also be a European team participating in the discussions.
On Wednesday, Kyiv accused Russian forces of executing a drone and missile attack on Ukraine overnight, causing damage to energy and infrastructure installations.
The Ukrainian Air Force reported that the assault included two Iskander-M missiles, four S-300 guided missiles, and 145 combat and imitation drones.
The attack impacted six regions across southern, northern, and central Ukraine.
According to Ukrainian authorities, the assault resulted in damage to a railway power grid in the central Dnipropetrovsk region, a hospital in the northeastern Sumy region, and an enterprise along with agricultural machinery in the Chernihiv region.
Additionally, in the northern Kyiv region, two individuals sustained injuries, and 18 private homes, 20 apartments, two shops, and various other civilian facilities were damaged.
