Zelenskyy Sets Red Lines for Ukraine in Potential Peace Talks With Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy outlined key issues that will not be subject to negotiation with Russia in any future peace talks. These include the structure of Ukraine’s armed forces and the country’s economic security guarantees.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Finnish President Alexander Stubb in Helsinki on March 19, Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine will not discuss its military capabilities with Russia, as they are a fundamental part of national security.

“I do not want to discuss with them [Russia] what our army should be because it is a security guarantee for Ukrainians. I also do not intend to negotiate economic security guarantees, where the European Union is the main guarantor for Ukraine,” he stated.

The Ukrainian president described these issues as non-negotiable and highlighted the broader principles guiding Ukraine’s stance in any talks.

“We must ensure the return of all prisoners held in Russia, including not only military personnel but also journalists, political prisoners, and civilians. Those who have been subjected to torture—we must bring them home, even those who, unfortunately, did not survive,” he said.

Zelenskyy also reiterated Ukraine’s position on Russian-occupied territories, stressing that these areas remain temporarily occupied and will never be recognized as Russian.

Ukraine has consistently maintained that any negotiations with Russia must be based on its sovereignty and territorial integrity, with security guarantees that align with its aspirations for European integration.

On March 18, Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Finland for an official visit alongside First Lady Olena Zelenska. His agenda includes meetings with Finnish President Alexander Stubb, top officials, and defense industry representatives to discuss military cooperation, European integration, and sanctions against Russia.