President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday hinted at a referendum for Ukrainians to decide whether to cede land to Russia to help end the invasion, as the US pressures Kyiv to concede the Donbas region despite it being a constitutional red line.
He told reporters that the price of peace is ultimately for Ukrainians to decide, suggesting possible elections or a referendum, and emphasised that the people must take a position. His comments came after US President Donald Trump claimed that 82% of Ukrainians want a settlement, a claim contradicted by local surveys showing broad rejection of territorial concessions.
Zelensky confirmed that current proposals would require Ukraine to withdraw troops from its own territory while allowing Russian troops to remain, with the US suggesting the area become a “free economic” or “demilitarized” zone. He noted that major issues remain unresolved, including control of the zone, monitoring mechanisms, reciprocal Russian withdrawal, and preventing infiltration by Russians posing as civilians.
As Kyiv continues to push for terms less favourable to Moscow, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Ukraine has already submitted a new proposal outlining potential territorial concessions. Zelensky added that military developments, including where Ukrainian forces can deter and destroy the occupier, will shape the diplomatic process.
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