Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy signaled on Tuesday that Kyiv is ready for peace talks to end the war with Russia but under clear conditions. Speaking to reporters, Zelenskiy said negotiations could take place “anywhere except Russia or Belarus”, provided they lead to a genuine end to hostilities.
Firm on Territory
Despite his openness to dialogue, Zelenskiy drew a hard line on Ukraine’s borders, vowing that “our forces will take no steps back” and that no territory would be ceded. The stance reflects Kyiv’s position that any peace must preserve Ukraine’s sovereignty and internationally recognized frontiers.
Appeal to Allies
Zelenskiy also pressed U.S. lawmakers to impose tougher sanctions on Russia and called on European partners to maintain stable financial support for the next two to three years a critical window as Ukraine battles both military and economic strains.
Why It Matters
The statement comes amid growing international debate over whether the war is reaching a stalemate. Zelenskiy’s remarks appear aimed at projecting readiness for peace without weakness, keeping Western support intact while countering narratives of “war fatigue” among allies.
What’s Next
With battlefield dynamics still fluid and winter approaching, attention turns to whether diplomatic channels possibly via Turkey, Switzerland, or other neutral mediators can reopen. For now, Ukraine insists peace is possible only through strength and sovereignty, not concession.
With information from Reuters.
