Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russian officials of misrepresenting their military control over Ukrainian territory during peace negotiations held in Abu Dhabi. Speaking in Copenhagen on November 10, Zelensky highlighted that Russian negotiators claimed to control nearly half of the Donbas region, a statement he refuted by presenting video and photographic evidence to the contrary.
Zelensky argued that Russian President Vladimir Putin might be receiving misleading information about the battlefield situation, which in turn could lead to unrealistic expectations regarding Russia’s ability to seize additional territories in eastern Ukraine. Despite these discrepancies, Zelensky expressed openness to direct talks with Putin, ideally with mediation from the United States and European countries, while firmly rejecting any demands from Moscow for Ukraine to cede its own land.
Emphasizing the need for a truthful reflection of territorial realities, Zelensky called on Washington to intensify economic and political pressure on Russia, cautioning against expanding business relations or lifting sanctions. He reiterated Ukraine’s commitment to diplomatic solutions and suggested that prisoner exchanges could signify progress in the peace process.
Additionally, Zelensky voiced concerns over discussions between the United States and Russia about forming a new European security framework. He warned that such talks might destabilize the region and stressed the importance of sequencing: ending the conflict, ensuring security guarantees for Ukraine, and addressing broader European security issues.
In his address, Zelensky also insisted that any future peace deal must hold accountable those responsible for civilian casualties and other wartime atrocities. He maintained that Russia must cease its military aggression and seek a genuine diplomatic resolution to the ongoing conflict.