Zelenskyy Denounces Russia’s Rush for Tactical Advantage Ahead of U.S.–Russia Summit
Key Developments & Statements
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Russian Advances in Donetsk: Just before the summit between Presidents Trump and Putin in Alaska, Russian troops seized ground in eastern Ukraine—including strategic positions near Dobropillia and parts of Pokrovsk—raising fears of an attempt to influence upcoming peace talks.
The WeekWikipédia -
Zelenskyy’s Warning: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned Russia’s offensive, calling it a clear signal that Moscow remains committed to expanding its battlefield gains rather than pursuing peace. He emphasized Ukraine’s determination to hold the line and not yield territory.
ReutersThe Guardian -
Ceasefire Rejection and Sovereignty Concerns: Zelenskyy reaffirmed that any peace deal requiring Ukraine to cede land—especially in Donbas—would be unacceptable and unconstitutional. He stressed that conceding territory would only gesture toward future conflict.
The Guardian
Final Takeaway
As the U.S.–Russia summit unfolds, Zelenskyy has made clear that Ukraine rejects territorial concessions and remains alert to Russia using military gains to shift negotiation dynamics. Russia’s intensified operations in Donetsk, timed to precede diplomatic engagement, underscore Kyiv’s urgent message: peace cannot be achieved at the cost of its sovereignty or via coercion.
