At the negotiations in Geneva, the parties were unable to agree on positions regarding territorial issues, despite some progress in discussions about a ceasefire. This was stated by the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, in an interview with British journalist Piers Morgan on February 18.
Zelensky noted that the participants in the negotiations reached a certain understanding in the military sphere, particularly regarding monitoring compliance with the ceasefire regime. He added that after a truce is achieved, a separate document will be signed to formalize the control mechanisms, with the United States expected to play a major role in this process.
“On military issues, we are closer to agreement than on political aspects, as the military discussed how to monitor the ceasefire when political will allows it,” the president reported.
However, he emphasized that the political part of the negotiations remains the most challenging. Zelensky pointed out that regarding territorial affiliation, the participants in the discussions took “literally three different positions.”
The President of Ukraine also reminded of the support for the U.S. proposal, which states that a ceasefire must first be established before negotiations on the status of temporarily occupied territories can begin. He noted that Kyiv is open to various formats of negotiations, but this does not imply agreement to all proposed initiatives.
Speaking about the U.S. proposals, Zelensky mentioned that a scenario was considered for the voluntary withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from areas controlled by Kyiv in exchange for the end of the war. However, he noted that Ukraine cannot agree to such an approach, as it considers these territories to be its own.
“We cannot just leave. This is our land. And the part that is temporarily under occupation is also ours. We do not recognize Russian control either legally or factually. Let’s stop where we are. This will be a compromise,” he emphasized.
Additionally, the president highlighted that Ukrainian society is not ready for territorial concessions, considering the enormous human losses incurred during the conflict. According to him, the issue of territories has not only political but also strategic significance, as it affects the future security of the country.
“Donbass is part of our values. It’s not just about the land. Even if security guarantees are offered, no one can guarantee that Putin won’t want to return,” Zelensky added.
