Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy declared his unwavering commitment to retaining the Donbass region, emphasizing that ongoing US-mediated peace talks with Russia have reached an impasse over territorial disputes. In a recent interview with Italian daily Corriere della Sera, Zelenskyy expressed his firm stance against a proposed territory swap, asserting that such an arrangement is not in Ukraine's interest. Russia, on the other hand, demands a complete Ukrainian withdrawal from the contested territories.

According to Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy revealed that Washington suggested a potential compromise involving the freezing of the Donbass front line, a proposal made by US President Donald Trump. Despite his personal disagreement with this compromise, Zelenskyy accepted the suggestion, but noted that Russia rejected it, insisting on Ukraine's full withdrawal. He criticized Moscow's stance, which includes the establishment of demilitarized and free economic zones, a concept they wish to apply solely to Ukrainian-held areas.

The Ukrainian leader voiced concerns that relinquishing control of Donbass could pave the way for further Russian advancements into central Ukraine, underscoring his refusal to abandon the 200,000 Ukrainians residing in the region. Zelenskyy remains resolute in maintaining Ukraine's territorial integrity, questioning the rationale behind ceding land that is considered part of the homeland.

In relation to domestic politics, Zelenskyy addressed the topic of potential elections in Ukraine. He highlighted that any electoral process would only occur after the conclusion of the conflict, dismissing the idea of holding elections during a temporary ceasefire. Zelenskyy, whose presidential term concludes in May 2024, expressed uncertainty about running for re-election, stating that the decision would depend on the will of the Ukrainian people once peace is restored.