Ukraine will not surrender its territories to the invaders, as Putin will not cease his actions after seizing a part of Ukraine. Any compromise at the expense of Ukrainian lands will serve as a “green light” for Moscow’s further aggression against other European nations.
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This statement was made by President Volodymyr Zelensky during his traditional evening video address on April 27.
Zelensky’s declaration came in response to remarks by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who suggested that Ukraine might consider territorial concessions to achieve a peace agreement with Russia.
“It is crucial for all our partners not to forget that Ukraine is defending not only itself in this war, and especially for Europe,” stated the head of state.
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“Russia desires our territory so that it can then seize the territories of others. If it succeeds with one state, with one neighbor, it will do the same with others. This is how Russia has acted: a piece of Moldova, parts of Georgia, the annexation of Crimea, the occupation of Donetsk, the subjugation of Belarus. And now, a full-scale war against Ukraine,” the president recalled.
Zelensky is confident that Russia can only be stopped by genuine strength and unwavering principle from all partners. Specifically, he emphasized that dignified peace conditions and respect for Ukraine are paramount.
“This is what matters – principled stance. This applies to America, the G7 countries, and European nations. For true peace to prevail in Europe and for Russia to halt its aggression, there must be dignified conditions for Ukraine and respect for Ukraine. This encompasses every significant security aspect: Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, security guarantees, accession to the European Union, and the tangible reconstruction of our country after the war. We are working towards a dignified peace,” Zelensky concluded.
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Previously, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz had rejected any concessions from Kyiv regarding Ukrainian Donbas at Moscow’s demand.