Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly dismissed any suggestions that Ukraine might concede the Donbas region to Russia in order to secure a ceasefire, asserting that such a move would lay the groundwork for future hostilities. His comments come ahead of a pivotal meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin scheduled in Alaska on Friday.
President Trump has previously indicated that he sees potential for a peace arrangement involving some territorial exchanges, a notion that raises alarms in Kyiv. Russian forces have intensified their summer offensive, recently making a rapid advance of approximately 10 kilometers near the eastern town of Dobropillia. Zelensky acknowledged that Russian troops had made gains in several areas but expressed confidence in Ukraine's ability to repel the attackers swiftly.
As details about Putin's agenda for the forthcoming talks remain unclear, Zelensky reiterated Ukraine's resolute refusal to surrender the Donbas region, which includes the eastern territories of Luhansk and Donetsk that Russia has partially occupied since 2014. "If we withdraw from the Donbas today — our fortifications, our terrain, the heights we control — we will clearly open a bridgehead for the Russians to prepare an offensive," he stated during a press briefing.
In his nightly address, Zelensky highlighted Russia's plans for new offensives targeting multiple areas along the front lines, including Zaporizhzhia, Pokrovsk, and Novopavlivka. The ongoing conflict has seen Russia gain control over almost 20% of Ukrainian territory, complicating prospects for peace.
Amidst the backdrop of Trump's meeting with Putin, the White House has characterized the Anchorage discussions as essentially a "listening exercise." Trump's earlier remarks suggested optimism about potential breakthroughs, although recent comments have appeared to lower expectations for a resolution.
Zelensky voiced skepticism about any outcome that could emerge from talks without Ukraine's involvement, underscoring frustrations over being excluded from the summit. He commented on the significance of Alaska as a meeting point, labeling it a "personal victory" for Putin as it signifies engagement on U.S. soil.
In response, Zelensky is set to join a virtual discussion with Trump, European leaders, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, and NATO Chief Mark Rutte on Wednesday to advocate for Ukraine's position in light of the critical summit. All participants aim to dissuade Trump from yielding to Putin's demands during their impending face-to-face encounter.
