Zelensky Emphasizes Territorial Integrity Amid Ongoing Peace Discussions

Mon Nov 24 2025 20:14:53 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As talks in Geneva conclude, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky warns that yielding territory is not an option, highlighting ongoing tensions with Russia over control of eastern Ukraine.

Following recent peace talks in Geneva involving U.S. and Ukrainian officials, President Zelensky affirmed Ukraine's commitment to its territorial integrity, opposing any recognition of Russian-occupied regions. Despite reported progress in discussions, significant divides remain regarding security guarantees and territorial issues.

Talks in Geneva between the US and Ukraine aimed at ending the war with Russia have concluded, with officials from both sides reporting progress and an intention to continue working.

However, no details have emerged on how to bridge the considerable divide between Moscow and Kyiv over territorial issues and security guarantees for Ukraine.

Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the important steps that had been made but warned that the main problem facing the peace talks was Vladimir Putin's demand for legal recognition of Russian-occupied territories in eastern Ukraine.

This would break the principle of territorial integrity and sovereignty, he said, highlighting concerns that Moscow could be rewarded for its aggression with land it seized by force.

Meanwhile, President Trump suggested on social media that something good just may be happening, but with the caveat: Don't believe it until you see it. The Geneva talks did not involve Russian representatives and the Kremlin acknowledged it had not received any information on the outcome of the discussions. Spokesman Dmitri Peskov noted adjustments were made to the plan welcomed by Putin.

A 28-point peace plan drafted by US and Russian officials was presented to Ukraine last week, but several elements appeared to cater to Moscow's longstanding demands, raising concerns in Kyiv and among its European allies.

Comments by Trump, suggesting Ukraine had a deadline to accept the deal or face cutbacks in US support, fostered a sense of urgency across Europe, leading to hastily convened talks between Ukraine and US officials.

In response to these diplomatic moves, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated significant progress was achieved during the Geneva talks, expressing optimism in reaching a resolution. However, some European leaders voiced skepticism about the advancements, noting the complexity of the discussions.

Despite ongoing negotiations, future steps remain uncertain. A virtual meeting involving key European leaders is scheduled to discuss further developments in the peace process.