Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy took a firm stand this week, declaring that Ukraine will not allow a “second attempt” to carve up its territory. Speaking in a video address on August 9, 2025, he accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of trying to “legalize” occupied regions like Donetsk, Luhansk, and Crimea in exchange for a pause in fighting. With a Trump-Putin summit looming in Alaska on August 15, Zelenskyy’s words carry weight.
Everyone sees Putin’s tactics clearly, Zelenskyy said. He fears sanctions and wants to trade a pause in killings for territorial gains. He warned that allowing Russia to keep seized land would only invite further aggression. Where there’s a second attempt, there will be a third, he added, stressing that Ukraine’s position remains unwavering. The president called for a dignified peace built on a reliable security architecture not a temporary ceasefire that gives Russia breathing room.
Key points from Zelenskyy’s address:
- No territorial concessions: Ukraine will not “gift” land to Russia, as per its constitution.
- Immediate peace needed: A lasting solution, not a delayed ceasefire, is critical.
- Allied coordination: Ukraine’s team, led by Andriy Yermak, has held “constructive” talks with Western allies, including the U.S., U.K., and Germany.
Zelenskyy’s remarks come as President Donald Trump, who announced the Alaska summit, hinted at swapping territories to benefit both Ukraine and Russia. We’re going to get some back, and we’re going to get some switched, Trump said on August 8, without clarifying details. Zelenskyy, for now, insists any deal must involve Ukraine directly. Decisions without us are dead decisions, he said, emphasizing that peace talks must prioritize Kyiv’s role.
In recent talks with allies, Zelenskyy noted strong support for a unified stance. He expressed confidence in U.S. leadership, saying, “I have not heard any partners doubt America’s ability to end this war.” For Ukraine, the fight is clear: no partition, no pause just peace.
