ROME (AP) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has firmly stated that Ukraine won’t give up any territory, despite U.S. calls for concessions to Russia. In a WhatsApp conversation with reporters, he emphasized, “We don’t want to give up anything. That’s what we are fighting for.”
Zelenskyy insisted that Ukraine’s laws and constitution do not allow for ceding land. He mentioned, “We don’t have a moral right either.”
In an interview with Politico, former U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated pressure on Zelenskyy to consider a U.S. proposal that involves giving up parts of Ukraine. Trump argued that Russia has the upper hand after nearly four years of conflict and urged Zelenskyy to be more flexible.
Zelenskyy had meetings with the Pope at Castel Gandolfo and Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni. The Pope stressed the importance of dialogue and a lasting peace, aiming to provide aid while maintaining neutrality in the conflict.
Recently, Zelenskyy held discussions in London with leaders from the U.K., France, and Germany to gather more European support. These leaders are united in backing Ukraine and believe the push for peace is at a crucial point.
### Facing U.S. Pressure
After three days of talks, Ukrainian and U.S. negotiators are seeking to resolve differences over the peace proposal. The contentious issue is the potential cession of the Donbas region, which Russia has occupied. European allies are staunchly opposing any idea of giving up land.
Trump claimed the situation in Ukraine is dire, saying many lives are at stake, and suggested that some Ukrainian officials agree with his stance. He also proposed that Ukraine should conduct a presidential election, despite martial law currently in place.
Zelenskyy acknowledged Trump’s desire for peace but noted, “We live here, and we see the details and nuances of our situation.”
### European Support
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz all continue to back Ukraine. Starmer pointed out that the quest for peace is critical, while Merz expressed skepticism about some U.S. proposals, calling for open discussions.
European leaders are pressing for strong security guarantees to support any ceasefire arrangement, as there are concerns about Russia resuming attacks. Zelenskyy and his allies accuse Putin of dragging out negotiations to advance military objectives.
### Ongoing Conflict
On the battlefield, Ukraine continues to face drone attacks from Russia. Reports indicate that 110 drones were launched against Ukraine, with air defenses intercepting many. However, some still managed to strike their targets, leading to emergency blackouts across various regions.
Conversely, Ukraine has stepped up its drone operations against Russia. An example includes an attack on a liquefied gas terminal in Russia’s Krasnodar region, igniting a fire that lasted for days and caused significant damage.
As the war continues, the situation remains fragile, and the push for peace faces both internal and external challenges. The coming weeks may prove pivotal for Ukraine and its allies as they seek a resolution in a complex and evolving landscape.
Source link
Donald Trump, Giorgia Meloni, Friedrich Merz, Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Vladimir Putin, Keir Starmer, Pope Leo XIV, Emmanuel Macron, International agreements, War and unrest, Drones, General news, Russia-Ukraine war, World news, Military and defense, Russia Ukraine war, Italy government, United Kingdom government, Politics, Elections, Oleg Nikolayev, Ukraine government, Bill Barrow
