Zelensky: "Crimea is Ukraine, this issue will not be discussed!"

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky once again stated his firm stance regarding the Crimean Peninsula, one of the most crucial issues for the country. According to him, the question of Crimea will be discussed only after a complete and guaranteed ceasefire with Russia. Zelensky's statement came in response to the peace plan proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump.

“To raise any territorial issues, we have mechanisms of sanctions, diplomatic, and economic pressure. But first, the war must completely stop. Only after this will we be able to discuss all matters,” Zelensky said at a press conference.

The Ukrainian leader emphasized he fully agrees with U.S. President Donald Trump that Ukraine currently lacks sufficient weapons to reclaim Crimea by force. However, he categorically stated that there could be no discussion about surrendering these territories.

“Crimea, as well as other temporarily occupied territories, is Ukraine. This is clearly stated in our Constitution. Our position is unwavering and clear. Most of the global community supports us on this issue. Even countries attempting to remain neutral between Russia and Ukraine recognize our territorial integrity,” Zelensky explained.

Recall, on April 17, the U.S. administration presented the Ukrainian delegation with a peace plan developed by Donald Trump. This document is considered the “final offer” of U.S. diplomatic mediation, one of whose most contentious points is the recognition of Russian control over Crimea.

According to the U.S. plan, if Ukraine rejects this offer, the U.S. may withdraw from mediating between Kyiv and Moscow. Trump, in turn, sharply criticized Zelensky's statement that “Crimea is the land of the Ukrainian people,” noting such a stance could harm peace negotiations.

In response to this criticism, Zelensky said Ukraine would always act in accordance with its Constitution and the will of its people, expressing confidence that international partners, particularly the United States, would also take decisive measures to support Ukraine’s territorial integrity.

Additionally, Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s readiness for dialogue in any format, at any time, and with any state. However, he emphasized that discussions would never involve questioning Ukrainian territorial sovereignty.

It is expected that negotiations between Ukraine and Russia will remain at the forefront of the international community’s attention in the coming weeks. Zelensky's firm statement demonstrates Ukraine's unchanging position. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!