Not computer game: Ambassador explains why Ukraine can’t give up occupied lands
Photo: Ambassador of Ukraine to Germany Oleksiy Makeev (Getty Images)
Ukraine’s ambassador to Germany, Oleksiy Makeev, warned against making territorial concessions to Russia, emphasizing that millions of Ukrainians live in the lands Russia seeks to seize, the German news portal tagesschau.de. reports.
Makeev stressed that the issue of territorial concessions as part of a possible peace settlement is extremely complex for Ukraine. In a joint morning program, he noted that the matter is not just about land.
“This isn't a computer game where you can hand over territory and continue playing with a click of the mouse. Millions and millions of Ukrainians live there,” Makeev said.
He also highlighted the unity of Western allies demonstrated during the Washington summit, noting that the democratic world continues to stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine.
Regarding Russia’s stance, Makeev expressed doubt about its willingness to engage in genuine negotiations.
“We’ll see if Putin agrees or is just playing for time again. We know this from the Russians. They’re starting various working groups and working committees and having long discussions. And at the same time, Russia is attacking us every day with bombs and missiles, as has been reported,” the ambassador noted
During his visit to Washington, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy discussed potential scenarios for a peace settlement with Trump. The Ukrainian leader did not rule out that territorial exchanges could appear on the agenda, but stressed that implementing such agreements would be extremely difficult.
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expects a peace deal to be reached during a trilateral summit of the US, Ukraine, and Russia. According to Rubio, any agreement will require compromises from both sides, and neither side will be 100% satisfied.
