Zelenskyy: Ukraine and US Forge Powerful Compromises for Strength | PRIMENEWSNOW
Zelenskyy: Ukraine and US Seek Strengthening Compromises
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of maintaining the principle that has ensured peace in Europe for an extended period: borders should not be altered through force.
Addressing the Crimea Platform parliamentary summit in Sweden via videolink, he questioned the effectiveness of this principle if it fails in Europe.
Discussing the recent Geneva talks, Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine is collaborating closely with the US, European allies, and others to devise strategies to end Russia’s aggression and secure lasting peace.
He accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of seeking legal acknowledgment for territories taken by force, undermining territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Zelenskyy commended the discussions with the US, highlighting agreements on sensitive issues like the release of Ukrainian prisoners and abducted children by Russia, but stressed that achieving true peace requires more effort.
“We continue to work with partners, especially the United States, seeking compromises that empower us, not weaken us. It’s crucial to recognize the danger of ignoring aggression.”
He urged global leaders to actively defend postwar peace principles in Europe, ensuring that borders remain unchanged by force, war criminals face justice, and aggressors bear full responsibility for their actions.
Highlighting the importance of decisions on Russian assets, he called for support to maintain pressure on Russia.
EU and US Trade Discussions in Brussels
In Brussels, EU ministers are engaging in trade talks, including discussions with the US. Key US representatives, trade envoy Jamieson Greer and treasury secretary Howard Lutnick, joined them for a working lunch.
EU trade commissioner Maroš Šefčovič described the talks with US counterparts as constructive, though he acknowledged that further work is necessary.
Many ministers addressed the Ukraine talks, emphasizing the need for a solution that benefits Europe.
Lithuania’s Kęstutis Budrys expressed satisfaction with the peace process’s progress but cautioned against excluding Europe from security discussions, noting Russia’s intentions to dismantle NATO and alter Europe’s security framework.
Budrys also raised concerns about airspace violations by meteorological balloons from Belarus, which have disrupted flights and affected thousands of passengers.
He highlighted Belarus’s economic pressure tactics, including seizing Lithuanian vehicles, and called for an EU response.
Sweden’s Stance on Ukraine’s Sovereignty
Swedish foreign minister Maria Malmer Stenergard reiterated Ukraine’s willingness for a ceasefire and peace negotiations, contrasting it with Russia’s unyielding stance.
“Sweden and the EU maintain that peace must respect Ukraine’s sovereignty, with no forced border changes or restrictions on Ukraine’s military capabilities.”
She affirmed Sweden’s view that Crimea and other regions remain Ukrainian and rejected Russia’s illegal annexations.
“Sweden will not acknowledge Russia’s unlawful claims on Ukrainian territory. Aggression will not be rewarded.”
Ukraine’s Conditions for Peace
Ukrainian parliament speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk outlined Ukraine’s readiness for genuine peace, setting three non-negotiable conditions: no legal recognition of Russian occupation, no restrictions on Ukraine’s defense, and no veto on its future alliances.
He emphasized that any peace process must involve Ukraine and Europe, respecting their sovereignty and constitutional principles.
Stefanchuk supported Zelenskyy’s call for using Russian frozen assets to compensate for the war’s devastation and advocated for Ukraine’s EU and NATO membership as part of future security guarantees.
Europe’s Strategic Shift: Reassessing the US-Russia Peace Proposal
In a bold move, European nations have introduced a comprehensive revision to the initial peace plan, aiming to reshape the US’s approach by incorporating both Ukrainian and European perspectives.
European Optimism and Caution
Germany’s Johann Wadephul expressed optimism, declaring the talks a “decisive success” for Europe, ensuring that all European concerns, including NATO-related issues, were addressed. Meanwhile, Finland’s President Alexander Stubb, after discussions with Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy, acknowledged progress but highlighted unresolved challenges.
Continued Dialogue and Future Meetings
As discussions continue, EU leaders are set to convene in Luanda, Angola, alongside the EU-Africa summit, to further deliberate on the evolving situation.
Today’s Agenda: Key Developments
It’s Monday, November 24, 2025, and I’m Jakub Krupa, bringing you the latest updates on Europe’s diplomatic efforts.
EU Ministers Address Trade and Security
In Brussels, EU ministers are engaging in trade discussions with US representatives Jamieson Greer and Howard Lutnick. EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič described the talks as “constructive,” though he acknowledged the need for further progress.
Lithuania’s Kęstutis Budrys emphasized the importance of European involvement in security discussions, warning against Russia’s intentions to undermine NATO and alter Europe’s security framework. He also raised concerns about Belarus’s airspace violations affecting Lithuanian airports.
Sweden’s Stance on Ukraine
Sweden’s Maria Malmer Stenergard criticized the EU’s limited support for Ukraine compared to its energy purchases from Russia. She advocated for a reparations loan to bolster Ukraine’s defense and called for increased international support.
Sweden’s Firm Position on Territorial Integrity
Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard reiterated Sweden’s refusal to recognize Russia’s annexation of Ukrainian territories, emphasizing the need for a peace agreement that respects Ukraine’s sovereignty and aligns with its EU aspirations.
Ukraine’s Red Lines for Peace
Ukrainian Parliament Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk outlined Kyiv’s non-negotiable conditions for peace: no legal recognition of Russian occupation, no restrictions on Ukraine’s defense, and no veto on its future alliances.
Zelenskyy’s Call for Compromise
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed the importance of respecting borders and working with international partners to end Russia’s aggression. He highlighted the need for decisive action on Russian assets and urged leaders to uphold postwar peace principles.
European Leaders React to Ukraine Peace Talks
In a positive turn of events, Germany’s Johann Wadephul expressed optimism about the recent discussions, describing them as a “significant victory” for Europe. He emphasized that “all European-related issues, including those involving NATO, have been addressed in this plan.”
“From the beginning, we have maintained that any agreement must include the voices of Europeans and Ukrainians,” he stated.
Cautious Optimism from Finland
Finland’s President, Alexander Stubb, known for his close ties with US President Donald Trump, took a more reserved stance. After a briefing with Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy, he acknowledged the talks as “progress,” but noted “significant challenges remain.”
Upcoming EU Discussions
The dialogue continues as EU leaders plan to convene in Luanda, Angola, during the EU-Africa summit to further deliberate on the matter.
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