Zelensky outlines conditions for discussing territorial issues with Russia

No initiative has yielded results

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed details of the negotiation process with Russia, focusing on territorial aspects. He emphasised that none of the options proposed at various stages of the discussions have ensured progress in resolving the conflict.

US proposals on buffer zones

Zelensky listed specific ideas put forward by the US to reach a compromise:

• Creation of demilitarised zones.
• Resolution of the situation around the Zaporizhzhia NPP and a possible agreement on a territorial exchange.
• Formation of a buffer zone in the Donbas region, extending on both sides of the line of contact. The head of state noted that Ukraine was ready to consider such a scenario.
• Conversion of the Kinburn Spit into a demilitarised zone, provided it remains under Ukrainian control.

Conditions for continuing dialogue

According to Zelensky, Russia links territorial issues with the end of the war and security guarantees. The Ukrainian president stressed that he is ready to discuss the territorial aspect exclusively during a personal meeting with Volodymyr Putin.

It was previously reported that the RF proposes Zelensky come to Moscow for negotiations, but the Ukrainian president insists on holding the meeting on neutral territory.

28 October 2026.