Zelensky says Russia ties territorial talks to ending war, Ukraine open to discussion

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Russia links territorial issues to ending the war and security guarantees, and Kyiv is ready to discuss possible compromises, but such decisions require negotiations at the level of state leaders. Zelensky emphasized that territorial questions are a "red line" for Ukraine and cannot be resolved during preliminary consultations. He noted that partners avoided deep discussion of territories, and only leaders of warring states have the authority to address this matter. During talks on the US 28-point plan, options included demilitarized zones, discussions on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, territorial exchanges, and a buffer zone in Donbas. The US also proposed demilitarizing part of the Kinburn Spit, but no further progress has been made.