Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russian representatives of providing misleading information about their territorial control in Ukraine during peace negotiations held in Abu Dhabi. Speaking in Copenhagen on November 10, Zelensky claimed that Russian officials exaggerated their military gains in the Donbas region, asserting control over areas still under Ukrainian authority, despite evidence to the contrary presented by Ukraine.
According to Zelensky, Russian negotiators falsely stated they controlled approximately half of the Donbas territory, a claim Ukraine countered with video and photographic evidence. He suggested that Russian President Vladimir Putin might be receiving inaccurate reports about the battlefield situation, leading to unrealistic statements regarding Russia’s capacity to capture remaining eastern territories.
Despite the territorial disagreements, Zelensky expressed a willingness to engage in direct discussions with Putin, proposing that the United States and European nations mediate the talks. However, he firmly rejected Moscow’s demands for Ukrainian withdrawal from its own lands, insisting any territorial decisions must be based on the actual situation on the ground.
In addition to addressing territorial disputes, Zelensky urged the United States to intensify economic and political pressure on Russia rather than expanding business ties or easing sanctions. He reiterated Ukraine’s commitment to diplomatic solutions and mentioned potential prisoner exchanges as a significant move towards progress.
Furthermore, Zelensky voiced concerns about ongoing discussions between the United States and Russia regarding a new European security arrangement, warning that such talks could destabilize the region. He emphasized that resolving the conflict, ensuring Ukraine’s security, and addressing broader European security must occur in the correct sequence.
Finally, Zelensky underscored the importance of accountability for wartime atrocities, maintaining that any future peace agreement must address civilian deaths and other violations. He called for an end to Russian military aggression and for a sincere diplomatic resolution to the conflict.