Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made it clear that his country will not hand over any territory to Russia, just days before a planned meeting between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin to discuss the future of the war. The US-Russia talks are set to take place in Alaska on August 15.
Trump recently suggested that Ukraine might need to cede some territory in order to bring the conflict—sparked by Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022—to an end. Zelensky, however, stressed that such a move is unacceptable and would reward aggression.
Posting on social media, Zelensky said, “Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier.” He insisted that Ukraine must be part of any peace solution and reaffirmed that the country’s constitution already protects its territorial integrity. “No one will and cannot deviate from this,” he added.
While careful not to directly criticise Trump, Zelensky’s remarks left little doubt that he rejects any deal that would see Ukraine lose land. He also warned that any agreement made without Ukraine’s involvement would not be a true path to peace.
Trump has indicated that “some swapping of territories” might be necessary, pointing to the heavy losses on both sides after more than three years of fighting. However, no specific details have been provided on how such an arrangement would work.
Many in Ukraine, as well as in Europe, have long feared that Trump and Putin could try to strike a deal without Kyiv at the table. Despite Trump’s tougher rhetoric towards Russia in recent months, there has been little concrete action to match his words. His earlier deadline for Moscow to agree to a ceasefire passed without consequence.
On the ground, both soldiers and civilians express deep fatigue from the constant fighting and relentless missile and drone attacks. While the longing for peace is strong, there is no appetite for a settlement that ignores Ukraine’s voice or sacrifices its sovereignty.
With the Alaska meeting approaching, it remains unclear whether Zelensky will be invited to participate in any way. For now, Ukraine’s position is unshakable: peace is possible—but not at the cost of its land.