Zelensky calls for 'fair' peace without 'rewards' for Putin
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reaffirms his refusal to cede territory to Russia in any peace deal, insisting on a "fair" settlement.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky speaks during a briefing in Kyiv, Ukraine, March 25, 2025. (AP)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reiterated his firm stance against territorial concessions in exchange for peace, emphasizing that any settlement must be "fair" and offer "no rewards for Putin, especially no land." Speaking via videoconference at a summit organized by Poland, Zelensky underscored Ukraine's commitment to sovereignty and territorial integrity.​
His remarks come amid reports that the United States suggested freezing front lines and accepting Russian control of Crimea, a proposal Zelensky has consistently rejected. While US President Donald Trump claimed that Zelensky might consider ceding Crimea as part of a settlement, the Ukrainian president has not wavered in his position.
Russia continues to demand the retention of occupied territories in southern and eastern Ukraine, now holding about 20% of the country. The United States has called this week "critical" for peace efforts, with Trump expressing skepticism about Russia's willingness to end the war, citing recent missile attacks from Russia.
Unconditional ceasefire
Meanwhile, Zelensky reiterated his call for a full and unconditional ceasefire as a prerequisite for any peace negotiations with Russia. In a televised address on Tuesday evening, he stated, "They must take clear steps to end the war, and we insist that an unconditional and complete ceasefire must be the first step."​
This statement came in response to Russian President Vladimir Putin's announcement of a unilateral 72-hour ceasefire from May 8 to May 10, coinciding with Russia's Victory Day commemorations. Kiev dismissed the gesture as insufficient and demanded an immediate and lasting 30-day truce.
Ukrainian officials expressed skepticism about Russia's sincerity, citing past violations of ceasefires. The United States, led by President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, continues pressing for a comprehensive ceasefire, with Rubio calling the coming week "very critical".
We're trying to achieve peace. Instead of rooting against @POTUS, everyone should be hopeful that President Trump can bring the Russia-Ukraine war to an end. pic.twitter.com/hmWq91C4No
— Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) April 27, 2025
France and Ukraine also endorse the 30-day proposal, viewing a truce as essential for viable peace negotiations. However, Ukraine refuses to cede territory, while Russia seeks conditions like halting Western arms supplies.
Last week, Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergey Lavrov indicated that progress is being made toward finalizing a deal to end the Ukraine conflict, noting that US President Donald Trump believes the two sides are moving in the right direction. Lavrov acknowledged that while some specific elements of the deal still need to be fine-tuned, Russia is ready to reach an agreement.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian distrust of Putin remains high, and US aid, vital for Kiev, could be jeopardized if diplomatic efforts falter. Negotiations continue under increasing urgency and international scrutiny.
