Zelensky rejects Russian demands

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia's territorial demands are a pretext to prolong the war and stressed that Ukraine will not compromise on its territorial integrity.

Speaking to reporters in Kyiv after phone calls with U.S. President Donald Trump and several European leaders, Zelensky said Trump believes direct talks between Ukraine and Russia are possible and views a ceasefire as the crucial first step.

“I would like to see a ceasefire as the first step so Russia can show its real willingness to end the war,” Zelensky said. “As for giving up five regions that are part of Ukraine, or withdrawing our forces from Ukrainian territory — this will never happen.”

He added that Ukraine’s territorial integrity is a red line that cannot be crossed.