Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his readiness to end the war with Russia by proposing to sign an agreement to cease hostilities based on freezing the conflict along the current line of confrontation. He made this statement during an interview with the American television channel ABC News on October 24, 2026.
Proposal to Freeze Hostilities
Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine is ready to end the war as soon as possible; however, he stated that it would not agree to give up 25% of its territory for peace. He highlighted that this would mean that the Defense Forces of Ukraine would have to withdraw from part of the Donbas currently under Ukrainian control.
Recognition of Occupied Territories
The President categorically rejected the possibility of recognizing the occupied territories as Russian. He mentioned that he had heard proposals regarding the recognition of temporarily occupied lands as part of Russia but assured that Kiev would not agree to this. According to Zelensky, such actions contradict the principles of Ukraine's sovereignty.
Immediate Peace Agreement
Zelensky also confirmed that he would sign a peace agreement immediately if it were possible. He stressed that Ukraine's goal is to quickly end the conflict, but only on terms acceptable to the state.