Will Ukraine make territorial concessions to Russia? Presidential Office chief responds
Photo: Head of the Office of the President Kyrylo Budanov (Getty Images)
The Ukrainian people will not agree to territorial concessions to Russia, and all currently occupied regions will inevitably be liberated, stated the Head of the Ukrainian Presidential Office, Kyrylo Budanov, in an interview with Al-Modon.
Read also: Presidential Office chief Budanov names main rules of war for Ukraine and Russia
Territorial issue remains key in talks
According to Budanov, the territorial question remained central during the recent trilateral negotiations in Geneva involving Ukraine, the United States, and Russia. Despite Russia's pressure, Ukraine maintains a firm position on preserving its territorial integrity.
"Territories are the main issue. Everything else is secondary. I am confident that the Ukrainian people will reject any plans concerning our land. All occupied territories will remain temporarily occupied and will inevitably be liberated over time," the Presidential Office chief stressed.
Russia’s plans for 2026
Budanov also outlined Russia’s strategic objectives for this year, noting that the Kremlin continues attempts to fully seize the Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia regions and establish so-called buffer zones along the border.
He emphasized that Ukraine’s current task is not only to contain Russian aggression but also to build an effective negotiation process capable of ensuring security without compromising sovereignty.
On the Korean scenario
Commenting on speculation about a possible peace settlement based on a Korean scenario — dividing the country along the front line — Budanov expressed confidence that Ukrainian society would never accept such an outcome.
"An independent Ukraine is a verdict for Russian imperialism. As long as Ukrainian soldiers hold the front line, both the rear and every citizen remain protected," he added.
Budanov’s new role
Kyrylo Budanov was appointed head of the Presidential Office in early 2026. In his first days in office, he announced the results of important negotiations concerning the future strategy of the state.
He later confirmed plans for new international rounds of talks aimed at ending the war and outlined the main principles Ukraine is following in confronting Russia.
Western media, analyzing his professional background, have also noted that Budanov knew about the Kremlin’s plans for a full-scale invasion as early as November 2021. This confirmed his high level of expertise in security matters.
