Volodymyr Zelensky announced during the celebration of the National Flag Day that Ukraine will not “give away its lands” to Russia.
“The flag of Ukraine is a goal and a dream for our people in the temporarily occupied territories. People keep this flag because they know that we will not give away our lands to the occupier,” the Ukrainian Պresident said.
At the same time, in an interview with NBC News, First Deputy Foreign Minister of Ukraine Serhii Kyslytsya noted that Zelensky is ready to discuss the issue of Ukrainian territories, but this is possible only during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The official added that President Zelensky is guided by both the current legislation of Ukraine and public opinion on the issue of territories. According to him, Ukrainian society is categorically against exchanging territory for peace.
Earlier, Mykhailo Podoliak, advisor to the Chief of Staff of the Ukrainian President, also stated that Kyiv may temporarily recognize Russia's de facto control over the occupied Ukrainian territories, but will not agree to it de jure.
