Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed a willingness to negotiate compromises with Russia regarding the ongoing conflict, emphasizing that such discussions cannot undermine Ukraine’s independence or sovereignty. In an interview with South Korea’s Kyodo News, he stated that Ukraine is prepared to engage in peace talks based on the principle of maintaining current positions.
Zelensky pointed out that while Ukraine is open to discussions with the United States regarding compromises, it will not accept ultimatums from Russia, which he labeled as the aggressor in the conflict. He remarked, “Everyone has recognized this. It hasn’t changed. Many countries that have acted as mediators since the beginning of this war, especially in the Middle East and Asia, acknowledge Russia’s role as the aggressor.”
“The fact that we are discussing compromises with an aggressor is already a significant concession on our part,” Zelensky added.
The president further elaborated on the nature of the compromises being proposed, stating, “Standing firm where we are is a considerable compromise. They have seized nearly 20% of our territory. We are ready to discuss peace based on the principle of ‘standing where we stand.’ What does Russia offer us as a compromise? They have said, ‘We are willing not to occupy your other regions.’ But that is terrorism. Even the very words themselves represent terrorism. ‘I am ready not to kill you—give us everything.’ What does that mean? This is not a compromise; it is an ultimatum,” he emphasized.
Zelensky reiterated that while Kyiv is open to compromises that respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, it will not yield to ultimatums.
In previous statements, Zelensky has consistently indicated that the Kremlin is not interested in ending the war. On February 11, he commented on recent Russian attacks in Sumy and Kharkiv, which resulted in casualties, noting that Russia shows no signs of stopping and is undermining trust in diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.
He also highlighted that territorial issues, particularly concerning eastern Ukraine, remain unresolved, which he considers crucial for any potential end to the war. Zelensky mentioned that for Russian forces to capture Donbas, they would need at least two years, as their advance is slow and they would likely suffer significant casualties during that time.
On February 17-18, a new round of trilateral negotiations took place in Geneva involving Ukraine, the United States, and Russia to discuss the war’s conclusion. On the evening of February 17, the Ukrainian delegation left the hotel where the talks were held. Rustem Umerov, head of the Ukrainian delegation and Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, stated that after the initial discussions, the delegations continued to work in groups on specific issues. He noted that the discussions focused on practical matters and possible solutions.
Umerov also held a separate meeting in Geneva with representatives from the U.S., France, the UK, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland to review the outcomes of the first round of talks and align approaches for future steps. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a shared vision and coordinated actions among Ukraine, the U.S., and Europe.
Steve Witkoff, a special envoy from the Trump administration, reported significant progress following the first day of negotiations, stating that both sides agreed to update their leaders and continue working towards a peace agreement.
The second day of talks on February 18 was described by Umerov as “intensive and substantive.” He explained that both political and military tracks were discussed, including security parameters and mechanisms for implementing potential agreements. He added that while some issues were clarified, others would require further coordination. The next step will involve reaching a consensus to present the developed solutions to the presidents.
Vladimir Medinsky, head of the Russian delegation, characterized the negotiations as “difficult but businesslike.” President Zelensky noted that the discussions had achieved a level of “constructiveness” regarding monitoring ceasefire compliance, with the U.S. expected to play a role in this effort.
President Zelensky has reiterated Ukraine's readiness for peace talks with Russia, emphasizing that any compromises must respect the nation's sovereignty. He criticized Russia's proposals as ultimatums rather than genuine negotiations, while ongoing trilateral talks in Geneva aim to address the conflict's resolution.