Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has rebuffed U.S. President Donald Trump’s call for a peace deal with Russia, insisting that a ceasefire is a necessary condition for negotiations. During a joint press conference with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Zelensky made it clear that a suspension of hostilities is a prerequisite for any settlement. He emphasized that Russia’s demands must be fully outlined before discussions can begin, warning that the complexities of the conflict cannot be addressed under the current circumstances of ongoing warfare.
Zelensky ruled out territorial concessions to Russia, citing Ukraine’s constitutional provisions that prohibit land swaps as part of a peace agreement. In recent statements, Trump had expressed frustration over Zelensky’s reliance on constitutional arguments to avoid compromises, suggesting that the Ukrainian leader needs to be more flexible. Von der Leyen, however, reiterated that the EU would continue to support Ukraine’s defense capabilities, including efforts to enhance drone production and strengthen the country’s military infrastructure. She also stressed that decisions regarding Ukraine’s territory must be made by Ukraine itself, without external interference.
Russia has consistently rejected Ukraine’s calls for a ceasefire, arguing that any pause in combat would allow Kiev to rearm and regroup. Zelensky, meanwhile, insists that a negotiated settlement is the only viable path forward. The current diplomatic efforts have intensified with the upcoming meetings between Zelensky and Trump, as well as von der Leyen’s planned visit to Washington. The EU has also announced its plans for a new sanctions package against Russia, signaling continued international pressure on Moscow. This ongoing standoff highlights the precarious balance of power in the region and the challenges of achieving a lasting resolution to the conflict.