Ukrainian President Rejects Territorial Concessions Ahead of London Talks

As discussions among Western allies commence in London regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly ruled out any territorial concessions to Russia. Emphasizing his stance, Zelensky stated that discussions about ceding Ukrainian territories, including the Crimea peninsula annexed by Russia, are not up for negotiation.

Zelensky made these comments in Kyiv, asserting that the issue is outside the realm of consideration according to Ukraine's constitution. This declaration comes in light of media reports suggesting that territorial concessions could be on the agenda in talks between Washington and Moscow.

Today's meeting in London features foreign ministers and security advisors from the United States, several European allies, and Ukraine, aimed at exploring potential paths to conclude the Russian invasion. This follows a prior meeting in Paris, where U.S. officials, including President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, indicated that if an agreement is not reached soon, the U.S. may reconsider its commitment to facilitating peace efforts.

According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, the U.S. administration anticipates a response from Kyiv regarding proposals that involve concessions to Russia, which reportedly include Ukraine not only renouncing its NATO aspirations but also relinquishing claims to Crimea. If Ukraine signals approval, these proposals could then be presented to Moscow.

Meanwhile, the Financial Times reported that Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested a ceasefire at the current frontlines, with indications that Russia might be willing to forgo claims to parts of the four occupied Ukrainian regions still under Kyiv's control, while retaining control over territories already occupied.

Additionally, the U.S. is proposing to freeze the existing frontlines as part of a peace agreement, which would entail Russia halting its offensives while the Russian military is still making advances.

This shift in U.S. policy under the Trump administration reflects a reduced willingness to support Ukraine in its defensive efforts against the ongoing Russian invasion, applying pressure on Kyiv to reach a swift resolution.

In the meantime, Zelensky reiterated Ukraine's readiness for a ceasefire, stating that his delegation is authorized to discuss an unconditional ceasefire or a partial ceasefire. He clarified, however, that Ukraine will not legally acknowledge Russia's annexation of Crimea or other territories, maintaining that they are integral to Ukraine.

Zelensky noted that the recent ceasefire declared by Russia around the Easter holiday serves as evidence that the onus is on Moscow to decrease its military aggression. However, he stressed that significant challenges remain before achieving a comprehensive ceasefire.

U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is scheduled to return to Moscow in the coming days to engage with President Putin regarding the termination of hostilities in Ukraine, with the White House indicating that this discussion is anticipated later this week.

In related developments, Ukrainian cities faced renewed assaults from Russian drones, with reports of fires in the southern port city of Odessa and central Ukraine's Poltava region. Authorities confirmed at least two injuries in Odessa following these attacks.