Zelenskyy open to compromise on Russian-controlled territories

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed a willingness to consider a compromise regarding territories currently under Russian control.

Speaking during an address to communities in the Chernihiv region, Zelenskyy suggested that some areas might present the only viable path to resolution, Caliber.Az reports via Ukrainian media.

"I think, perhaps, when it comes to certain territories, this may be the only way forward," Zelenskyy remarked, indicating the possibility of a shift in Ukraine’s position on the matter.

While the president reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to regaining control of its borders as they stood in 1991, he acknowledged that some territories could remain under Russian control. He stressed, however, that the ongoing armed conflict could not persist indefinitely, signalling an openness to dialogue as a means to end the war.

Zelenskyy’s comments come amid growing international pressure for a negotiated settlement to the war, which has led to significant loss of life and displacement across Ukraine.

Note that, over the past two months, President Donald Trump has engaged in separate talks with both Ukraine and Russia in an attempt to fulfill his campaign promise of ending the war in Ukraine. Trump had initially claimed he could resolve the conflict within 24 hours of taking office, but has since walked back that statement.

His administration has worked towards a ceasefire deal, with Russia showing agreement in principle, but complicating matters with conditions that undermine the progress. Trump has pressured Ukraine to accept his hardline approach to receive continued US military aid, while Ukraine insists on being part of any negotiations.

In February, Trump initiated talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which were followed by discussions in Saudi Arabia with both Russian and Ukrainian officials. The US proposed a ceasefire, but Russia’s demands, including halting Ukraine’s military mobilization and ending weapons supplies to Kyiv, made the plan difficult to implement. Tensions escalated when the US paused military aid to Ukraine and halted intelligence sharing. By March, Ukraine agreed in principle to the ceasefire, but Russia's continuing demands stalled any significant progress.

Despite ongoing negotiations, Trump expressed frustration with Putin’s lack of cooperation and threatened further actions if the war continues. However, the conflict remains unresolved, with significant obstacles hindering a potential resolution.

By Aghakazim Guliyev