Ceasefire must be reached before discussing territorial issues, says Zelensky after meeting with Trump

A ceasefire must be established before any discussion of territorial issues, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said during a press briefing following his meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington.

“The territorial question is extremely sensitive — of course, it’s the most difficult one,” Zelensky stated. “Our position is that we should first achieve a ceasefire so we can sit down at the negotiating table, talk, and understand each other’s stances. I think this is a very important first step. I believe President [Trump] understands that.”

Zelensky noted that Russia’s position is different, as Moscow would like to seize all of Ukraine’s territory. Speaking about the post-war period, he stated that Ukraine needs strong security guarantees to ensure that “Putin does not return with new aggression.”

The Ukrainian president said the territorial issue will be the most challenging part of any negotiations, regardless of their format.

“Unfortunately, it will concern Ukraine’s territory, but no one can make decisions on this matter without Ukraine. The issue of territory is sensitive — it will be a difficult stage of the negotiation process, but I am confident that such negotiations will take place,” Zelensky concluded.