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Zelenskyy: Ukraine Has No Legal or Moral Right to Cede Territory
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President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine would not compromise on its territorial integrity as talks continue over a revised US peace plan, UNITED24 Media reported on December 8.
He made the remarks to journalists while traveling from London to Brussels, following a meeting at Downing Street with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
The US peace proposal, originally consisting of 28 points, has now been trimmed to 20, with several provisions described as “overtly non-Ukrainian” reportedly removed.
“We’ve streamlined the peace proposal and removed the clearly non-Ukrainian points,” Zelenskyy said. “The American position is generally aimed at finding a compromise—but when it comes to territory, there is no compromise. At least, not yet.”
He emphasized that Ukraine has no legal or moral right to give up any territory, citing national legislation, the Constitution, international law, and ethical responsibility.
“Russia demands we give up land. We simply cannot do that. That’s what we are fighting for. And I think the world understands this.”
Zelenskyy also highlighted the importance of legally binding security guarantees from Ukraine’s Western partners, particularly the United States.
“The key question is this: if Russia renews aggression after the war ends, how will our partners respond? That’s why binding guarantees are essential,” he said, noting support from Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte and recent talks with European leaders in London.
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He further suggested that a final version of the updated peace plan could be ready “tomorrow evening,” after which it will be sent to the United States for review.
When asked about potential differences with US President Donald Trump, Zelenskyy was diplomatic but firm.
“There are different views, yes,” he acknowledged, without elaborating. However, he reiterated Ukraine’s expectation for sustained American support, regardless of political changes in Washington.
Zelenskyy also underscored the financial aspects of post-war recovery, stating that discussions around reconstruction must account for the broader European perspective.
As peace talks evolve, Kyiv continues to walk a fine line—welcoming diplomatic engagement while holding firm to its core principles: sovereignty, territorial integrity, and long-term security.
Earlier, it was reported that US congressional leaders have released a new annual defense policy bill that sets national security spending at a record $901 billion for 2025.
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