Peace in Ukraine Must Include Reintegration of Russian-Occupied Territories, Says Croatian PM

Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković has emphasized that any future peace in Ukraine must not only end Russian hostilities but also include a structured plan for reintegrating temporarily occupied territories.

Speaking at the “Support Ukraine” summit on February 24, Plenković stated that peace should not be perceived as a compromise that contradicts the principles upheld by Ukraine and its partners over the past years. Instead, he stressed that a just peace should put an end to violence while ensuring a clear roadmap for reintegration.

“We should not view peace as an opportunity to claim that Ukraine’s Western partners have been forced into a position that contradicts what we have defended for years. Peace must put an end to killings and include a reintegration plan for your occupied territories. This is the fair way to move forward, and this is how the European Union should focus its efforts,” Plenković said.

According to the Croatian Prime Minister, Ukraine’s stability depends on both economic and military strength, supported by European partners. He underscored that only a strong Ukraine can guarantee security and freedom for its citizens.

Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reaffirmed that Ukraine would never recognize Russian control over occupied territories, emphasizing that the country’s legal framework prohibits such concessions.

Speaking to NBC News, he responded to comments by former U.S. President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who questioned the feasibility of Ukraine reclaiming all its territory. Zelenskyy stressed that while Ukraine seeks to restore its borders through diplomatic means, continued international support remains crucial for its defense.

Additionally, Zelenskyy stated that if negotiations with Russia were to take place, he would propose exchanging Ukrainian-controlled areas of Russia’s Kursk region for occupied Ukrainian territories.

Speaking to The Guardian, he emphasized that all Ukrainian territories are equally important and that any negotiations must come from a position of strength. He also highlighted investment opportunities for American companies in Ukraine’s reconstruction. As of early February 2025, Ukrainian forces control approximately 450 square kilometers of Russia’s Kursk region.