ALBAWABA- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declared on December 11 that no territorial concessions to end Russia’s invasion will be made without the explicit approval of the Ukrainian people, either through elections or a national referendum.
Speaking in Kyiv, he stressed that he has “no constitutional or moral right” to cede land such as the Russian-claimed Donbas, saying any settlement must comply with Ukraine’s constitution and international law. His comments come as new peace proposals circulate, including ideas to freeze current front lines and offer security guarantees in exchange for neutrality.
Hours later, the Trump administration signaled mounting frustration. A White House statement said President Donald Trump is “extremely dissatisfied” with both Kyiv and Moscow for failing to take “concrete actions” toward a deal.
At the Kennedy Center Honors, Trump criticized Zelensky for not yet reading a U.S. proposal that aides say Russia has shown openness to, urging him to “be realistic” about Ukraine’s leverage and warning that U.S. military and intelligence support could diminish without progress.
Trump’s pressure follows tense calls with European leaders, where he reportedly exchanged “strong words” over the stalemate. The Kremlin welcomed his stance as aligned with its views on NATO and territorial disputes. Envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff delivered the latest U.S. plan after talks in Moscow, with Washington pushing for movement before Christmas.
The developments mark a critical moment in the 44-month war, which has killed hundreds of thousands and displaced millions.
Zelensky’s insistence on public approval could delay negotiations, while Trump’s impatience risks straining Western unity. European allies, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, reiterated support for a “just and lasting” peace and urged restraint.
