Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected renewed pressure from the United States to give up territory to Russia, reaffirming Kyiv’s stance as he met with European leaders who remain wary of any settlement that rewards Moscow’s invasion.
Zelenskyy told reporters late Monday that Russia continues to demand Ukrainian land as part of a potential agreement — a condition Ukraine is not willing to accept.
“Undoubtedly, Russia insists for us to give up territories. We, clearly, don’t want to give up anything. That’s what we are fighting for,” he said in a WhatsApp message. He added that Ukrainian law, the constitution, and “moral right” prevent him from agreeing to such concessions.
Zelenskyy’s remarks followed comments from President Donald Trump, who told Politico that Ukraine should consider the U.S. proposal requiring it to give up certain territories, arguing Russia currently holds the “upper hand” nearly four years into the war and that Kyiv must “play ball.”
Zelenskyy Seeks Firm Commitments From European Allies
Zelenskyy met on Tuesday with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome to discuss the progress of peace negotiations and long-term security arrangements.
According to Meloni’s office, the two leaders stressed the importance of a united Western position and emphasized the need for “robust security guarantees” to deter future Russian aggression.
Earlier, Zelenskyy met with Pope Leo XIV at Castel Gandolfo, where the Vatican again called for diplomatic efforts capable of producing “a just and lasting peace.” The Holy See has maintained formal neutrality while urging both sides to pursue negotiations.
The Rome meetings followed Zelenskyy’s talks in London with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. All three backed Kyiv’s resistance to territorial concessions, noting key concerns about elements of the current U.S. proposal.
Starmer said efforts toward peace were at a “critical stage,” while Merz said he was “skeptical” about several U.S.-drafted documents and emphasized that the coming days “could be a decisive time for all of us.”
Territorial Concessions Remain the Central Divide
U.S. and Ukrainian negotiators recently concluded three days of talks aimed at narrowing differences on the Trump administration’s proposal. One of the most contentious elements is the expectation that Ukraine give up control of the Donbas region, most of which is currently occupied by Russian forces.
Ukraine — with strong backing from Europe — continues to reject the idea.
Zelenskyy said negotiators are reviewing three documents: a constantly evolving 20-point framework, a draft on security guarantees, and a reconstruction plan. He added that Ukraine’s updated response would be presented to the United States on Wednesday.
Trump, in his remarks, credited Ukrainian troops for their “bravery” but argued that Russia’s size gives Moscow long-term advantages. He also repeated his insistence that Ukraine should hold a presidential election despite wartime martial law. Zelenskyy said elections could occur within 60 to 90 days if security could be ensured.
Europe Seeks Clear Security Guarantees Before Any Ceasefire
European leaders have expressed concern that any agreement lacking enforceable security guarantees could allow Russia to regroup and re-launch hostilities. Trump has not publicly detailed what U.S. security commitments would look like under his proposed framework.
Zelenskyy and several European governments have accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of deliberately slowing diplomatic talks while continuing military strikes, a strategy they warn could weaken Ukraine’s negotiating position.
Heavy Drone Strikes Hit Ukrainian Infrastructure
Ukraine’s air force said Russia launched 110 drones overnight, with Ukrainian defenses intercepting 84. Twenty-four drones penetrated defenses and struck energy facilities, leading to emergency blackouts in several regions, according to national grid operator Ukrenergo.
At the United Nations, Deputy Humanitarian Chief Joyce Msuya reported that only 65% of the requested winter-response funding has been received, forcing reductions in heating support, cash aid, and critical services for vulnerable populations.
The U.K. Defense Ministry confirmed the first British military death in Ukraine on Tuesday, reporting that a servicemember died following an accident during a defensive-system test.
Ukraine Responds With Strikes Inside Russia
Russian authorities said they intercepted 121 Ukrainian drones across several regions, including Crimea. Officials in Chuvashia said nine people were injured and buildings were damaged during one attack.
A Ukrainian security official separately confirmed that Ukraine’s Security Service conducted a Dec. 5 drone strike on a liquefied gas terminal in Russia’s Krasnodar region, igniting a fire that reportedly burned for more than three days.
