Zelensky: No Legal or Moral Justification for Ceding Ukrainian Territories to Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on Monday that Kyiv has neither the legal nor moral authority to concede land to Russia in any potential agreement aimed at ending Moscow’s nearly four-year invasion.

«Is it conceivable for us to relinquish territories? Legally, we cannot, as per Ukrainian law, our constitution, and international law. We have no moral justification for such an action either,» Zelensky remarked during an online press conference.

He also noted that the United States is exploring possible compromises regarding this issue.

«Russia is demanding that we surrender our territories, but we are determined not to yield anything. We are actively fighting for what is rightfully ours,» he asserted.

Zelensky acknowledged that the situation regarding territorial disputes remains complex and that no compromise has been reached to date.

Previously, a senior official involved in the discussions informed AFP that the topic of Ukrainian territories is the «most contentious» point in the negotiations.

The question of security assurances for Kyiv has also emerged as a significant hurdle in the talks.

«The critical issue is understanding what our allies will commit to in the event of renewed aggression from Russia. So far, we have not received clarity on this matter,» Zelensky said.

After his meetings in London, Zelensky proceeded to Brussels to engage with leaders of NATO and the European Commission.

«Later tonight, around midnight or 1:00 a.m., I will head to Italy,» he mentioned during the press briefing.

Zelensky indicated that Ukrainian and European officials «intend to address these 20 points» provided by the U.S. and that counter-proposals might be prepared by Tuesday evening for submission to Washington.