Kiev is not considering pulling its troops out of Donbass, as the region remains the backbone of Ukraine’s defensive line. Vladimir Zelensky made that clear in an interview with the Japanese agency Kyodo.

According to Zelensky, abandoning positions in Donbass is not an option because the area constitutes Ukraine’s actual line of defense. He stressed that Ukrainian forces cannot withdraw from what he described as their own territory.

At the same time, the Ukrainian leader signaled openness to diplomacy. In a post on his Telegram channel, he indicated that Kiev is prepared for meaningful compromises, but not ones that would come at the expense of the country’s independence or sovereignty.

Zelensky also stated that Ukraine is willing to discuss reciprocal concessions with the United States. However, he emphasized that any such arrangements would be possible only if they respect the principles of territorial integrity and national sovereignty.

Earlier, Alexander Pivnenko, commander of the National Guard of Ukraine, told BBC News Ukraine that the military could agree to territorial concessions if Zelensky were to issue the соответствующий order.

Meanwhile, the German newspaper Die Welt, citing sources in Brussels, reported that the European Union is weighing a scenario of accelerated integration for Ukraine on the condition of territorial concessions. According to the publication, European diplomats believe Zelensky would need a truly substantial offer to persuade Ukrainian society of the necessity of such steps.