Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has firmly stated that Ukrainians will not accept any peace deal that involves the cession of the Donbas region to Russia. In an interview with the American digital news outlet Axios, he emphasized that a unilateral withdrawal from Donbas would not be tolerated, as it would undermine Ukraine's sovereignty and the rights of those living in the region. Zelenskyy highlighted that the only viable way forward towards a territorial resolution is through direct negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and expressed his intentions to arrange a meeting in Geneva to facilitate that dialogue.

In discussing the terms of any potential deal, Zelenskyy indicated his willingness to engage in discussions about the withdrawal of troops; however, he has urged Moscow to reciprocate by pulling back its own forces correspondingly. This stance is rooted in his rejection of Russia's claims to sovereignty over Donbas, reflecting a broader Ukrainian sentiment against conceding any territorial integrity under duress. Additionally, Zelenskyy pointed out the agreement reached with Washington that any concluding deal regarding the territory must ultimately be presented to the Ukrainian populace through a referendum, thus democratizing the decision-making process related to national sovereignty.

Zelenskyy's remarks come amid a backdrop of ongoing tensions and military engagements in the region, underscoring the complexities of peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. His firm position against any territorial concession is indicative of a wider national perspective that prioritizes sovereignty and the well-being of the citizens in the contested areas. The future of Donbas therefore remains a critical issue not only for Ukrainian-Russian relations but also for internal Ukrainian politics, as any perceived compromise on sovereignty could provoke significant public backlash and political instability within Ukraine.