He noted: "We stand where we stand — this is already a big compromise. Russia has seized almost 20% of our territory, and we are ready to discuss peace based on the principle of 'we stand where we stand.' This is a significant step back," he added in an interview with the Japanese agency Kyodo News.
The president emphasized that Ukraine is open to "real compromises," but will not make concessions that threaten its independence and territorial integrity.
Zelensky also mentioned that he is ready to discuss compromises with the United States but does not want to receive ultimatums from Russia, which remains the aggressor.
He criticized the proposals from the Russian side, calling them ultimatums, and added: "I am not ready to kill if you give us everything. This is not a compromise, but an ultimatum. We are ready for discussions that respect our sovereignty and the safety of our people."
The president also reported on the shortcomings in the progress made during the negotiations in Geneva regarding territorial issues.
He pointed out that no one sees any positivity in discussing territorial matters. "This needs to be acknowledged," he added.
Despite this, the parties agreed to hold a new round of negotiations within the next 10 days, possibly also in Geneva.
"We are confident that we have real opportunities for a dignified end to the war, and this can significantly help bring peace in place of conflict," Zelensky emphasized.
According to him, the Ukrainian side has already prepared responses to key issues and defined priorities for the next stage of negotiations.
"Our responses to complex questions are ready, and the priorities for the negotiation team have been defined," he noted.
It is worth recalling that on February 18, trilateral negotiations took place in Geneva involving Ukraine, Russia, and the United States. As part of these discussions, a decision was made to monitor compliance with the ceasefire regime with the participation of the United States.
