Zelensky: Only Putin Can Negotiate Territorial Issues with Ukraine

 Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has asserted that any discussions concerning the country’s territorial integrity can only be held directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin, ruling out such negotiations at the delegation level.

In an interview published Tuesday by Hungary’s Válasz Online, Zelensky clarified that the Ukrainian delegation participating in the ongoing peace talks in Istanbul is not authorized to negotiate matters related to Ukraine’s sovereignty or territorial claims.

“Our memorandum forms the basis of the negotiations,” Zelensky said. “Under this framework, our delegation has a mandate to engage on humanitarian matters or a potential ceasefire. However, they are not permitted to discuss the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. That remains a constitutional issue—and my responsibility alone.”

He continued: “It is my role to engage in dialogue regarding our territories—with the one who seized them, President Putin. I will not be discussing my position on this matter with anyone else.”

Zelensky’s comments come in the wake of the second round of peace talks in Istanbul, during which both Russian and Ukrainian representatives submitted proposals aimed at ending the ongoing conflict.

Moscow’s proposal reportedly includes a demand for Ukraine to formally recognize the annexation of five regions following referendums, withdraw all military forces from these areas, adopt a stance of neutrality, and accept limitations on its military capabilities.

Kyiv has categorically rejected these terms, labeling them an “ultimatum.” Ukraine continues to demand a full, unconditional 30-day ceasefire and has reiterated its refusal to accept any form of territorial concession or neutrality.

Earlier in May, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that a direct meeting between President Putin and President Zelensky could not be ruled out, provided there is substantial progress and firm agreements resulting from the peace talks.

However, Russia has expressed uncertainty regarding the legitimacy of Zelensky’s role as president. Moscow maintains that Zelensky’s term formally ended last year and has raised questions about who would be legally authorized to sign any potential agreement, as Ukraine has not held new elections under martial law provisions.