Zelensky: Compromise is possible, but not at the cost of territory
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky shared the outcomes of talks in Abu Dhabi, where for the first time a trilateral format allowed an open discussion of visions for ending the war.
According to him, the parties spoke directly about key approaches, but their visions of the war’s conclusion remain fundamentally different.
The Ukrainian delegation, Zelensky noted, was ready to discuss details but did not have a mandate to make final decisions — such agreements can only be reached at the leader level.
Zelensky clarified that both complex political issues and technical questions were raised during the meeting, and some progress was made. In particular, discussions touched on signing a declaration with the “Coalition of the Willing”regarding security guarantees.
The President called this a bold step by European partners, but stressed that the mechanism will not become fully operational until supported by multiple parliaments.
Zelensky identified the territorial issue — especially regarding Donetsk region — as the most contentious point, noting no agreement has been reached.
He emphasised that strict demands on Ukraine do not constitute a “compromise”, as they would effectively require sacrificing territorial integrity, which Kyiv will not accept.
At the same time, Zelensky reiterated that Ukraine is open to compromise, but only if it leads to a real end to the war, and never at the cost of Ukrainian territory.
The President also explained his understanding of compromise: it must involve steps from both sides, even if the logic of finding a compromise between a victim and an aggressor seems unfair.
