The ball is in Zelensky's court but he is in an impossible position
thetimes.com -- Sunday, August 17, 2025, 3:58:54 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–Russia Relations, Foreign Policy & International Relations, U.S.–NATO Relations
Central to President Putin's war aims, after the full-scale invasion of 2022 the war in Donbas escalated into a huge battle of attrition, costing hundreds of thousands of casualties on either side, reducing settlements to rubble and swathes of land into territory reminiscent of the mud-churned battlefields of the First World War.
Battles for Donbas cities such as Bakhmut became graveyards of Ukraine's regular and volunteer units as troops died attempting to stem human wave Russian assaults.
Yet now, despite holding on to 22 per cent of Donbas -- about 6,600 sq km of land -- Ukraine may be expected to surrender its most fortified defence lines after Putin demanded that it hand over this remaining territory, including strategic heights and fortified cities, as a condition to ending the war.
It is not a condition that President Zelensky is expected to be willing or able to accept. Politically and militarily, the Ukrainian president would be unable to cede the Donbas territory to Russia, even if he wished to, without leaving Ukraine in a more precarious position than the one in which it now exists.
Even if Russia were allowed a long-term de facto control of territory it already occupies in Ukraine, Ukraine's constitution poses a complex challenge to any potential surrender of unconquered territory -- or the formal de jure recognition of Russian control over land so far seized by Putin's troops.
The constitution expressly prohibits the president from unilaterally authorising any territorial changes, stipulating that Ukraine's territory is integral and inviolable; that the protection of Ukraine's sovereignty is the most important function of the state; and that any changes in territory can only be decided by a national referendum called by the country's parliament, the Verkhovna Rada.
Zelensky -- who set the tone of his war leadership when he said "the fight is here; I need ammunition, not a ride" in 2022 while refusing a US offer of evacuation -- has stated repeatedly that he would not agree to territorial concessions.
"The answer to the Ukrainian territorial question is already in the constitution of Ukraine," he said nine days ago in a video address, following the first remarks by President Trump that land swaps may form the basis of a peace deal. "No one will deviate from this, and no one will be able to. Ukrainians will not gift their land to the occupier."
Zelensky's meeting in Washington, where he will be accompanied by the main European leaders, Mark Rutte, the Nato secretary-general, and Sir Keir Starmer, comes after Trump told allies that Putin wanted Ukraine's Donbas as a condition to ending the war.
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In what could mark a fulcrum point in the course of the conflict, Monday's meeting will also be the first time Zelensky and Trump have met since their disastrous Oval Office meeting in February. It comes after the summit between Trump and Putin in Alaska on Friday, where Trump suddenly abandoned his demand for a ceasefire in favour of a peace settlement that appears to hinge Putin's demand for the unconquered Ukrainian territory of Donbas.
So far it remains unclear whether the proposals by Putin are part of an opening gambit marking a starting point for negotiations, or a final non-negotiable offer. Either way, the suggestion of giving up unconquered Ukrainian-majority territory, where hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian civilians still live, to Russia, appears an impossible demand.
"Giving Donbas to Russia is legally, politically and strategically out of the question; and in addition it would cause serious division in our society," noted Oleksandr Merezhko, chairman of Ukraine's foreign affairs committee and member of Zelensky's Servant of the People Party. "Our constitution forbids any division of Ukrainian sovereign territory."
Putin's offer to freeze the front lines elsewhere in return for all of Donbas apparently ruled out the possibility of a ceasefire until a comprehensive deal is reached. A ceasefire had been one of Zelensky's key demands, at a time when Ukraine is being struck daily by Russian drones and ballistic missiles, and Ukrainian troops are in slow retreat along key areas of the battlefield.
According to sources with knowledge of the Russian offer who spoke to Reuters, under the proposed Russian deal, Kyiv would fully withdraw from the eastern Donetsk and Luhansk regions -- which both comprise Donbas -- in return for a Russian commitment to halt attacks in the southern regions of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. In addition, Russia would give up tiny pockets of occupied Ukraine near Kharkiv and Sumy totalling around 440 square km, in return for Ukraine handing up the 6,600 square kilometres it still holds in Donbas.
The same sources also reported that Putin was also seeking formal recognition of Russian sovereignty over Crimea, which Moscow seized from Ukraine in 2014.
Militarily, even though Ukraine's battlefield fortunes are in slow decline, surrendering Kyiv's remaining territory in Donbas to Putin would involve ceding key heights and the fortified cities of Kramatorsk and Sloviansk, allowing Russia an easy axis of advance into other areas of Ukraine if hostilities recommenced.
"The ground our forces still hold in Donbas is a bastion, well fortified, and a gateway to other areas of Ukraine, which could be used as an easy springboard by the Russians in any further attack," added Merezhko. "This land is not merely symbolic. It is strategically vital."
Economically, though Ukraine has already lost a number of key mines in Donbas, further loss of territory would also prove crippling.
Until it ceased production seven months ago due to fighting directly above it, the coke mine outside the Donbas city of Pokrovsk was the country's only source of coking coal, essential for the steel industry.
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At the start of the full-scale invasion, Ukraine's steel production plummeted by 70 per cent to 6.3 million tons. According to industry analysts, if the Pokrovsk mine is completely lost the country's steel production would drop to 2-3 million tons: a fraction of its glory days.
With so much to lose, and amid such a febrile political environment, as their president goes to face Trump in Washington, few Ukrainians have found reassurance in what followed the Alaska summit, with briefings alluding to security guarantees for Ukraine in the style of Nato's all-for-one "Article 5" outside the Nato alliance.
"Do we really expect nuclear armed western nations to respond aggressively against Russia in the case of further attacks upon Ukraine, if we are not actually a member of Nato?" concluded Merezhko. "We don't think so.
"We just hope that the European leaders can keep Trump focussed on the key issues when he sees Zelensky in Washington," he concluded. "Without European pressure Trump seems to wander off towards Russia, like a line in that song by Frank Sinatra, 'my fickle friend the summer wind'."
Sign Our PetitionIn the unfolding tragedy of the Ukraine conflict, the situation of President Volodymyr Zelensky stands as a poignant reminder of the complexities and moral dilemmas rooted in national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the human cost of war. As the article highlights, Zelensky finds himself in a precarious position, facing demands from Russian President Vladimir Putin that threaten to undermine Ukraine's very existence as a sovereign nation. The historical context of Ukraine's struggles against aggression is essential to understanding the current dynamics. Since gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Ukraine has continuously fought to assert its identity and sovereignty amidst external pressures, particularly from Russia, which has long viewed Ukraine as a critical part of its sphere of influence.
The current war in Donbas, intensified by Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, has become a battleground not only for military supremacy but also for the very soul of Ukraine. The devastation wrought in cities like Bakhmut, reminiscent of the horrific trench warfare of World War I, serves as a stark illustration of the human cost of this conflict. As casualties mount and communities crumble, the broader implications of this war extend far beyond Ukraine’s borders, impacting global geopolitics, energy security, and international law. The ongoing struggle is not merely a military one; it represents a clash of values: a fight for democracy and self-determination against authoritarianism and imperialism.
Zelensky’s firm stance against territorial concessions is emblematic of a broader principle that resonates with nations and peoples worldwide: the right to self-determination. His assertion that “Ukrainians will not gift their land to the occupier” reflects a deep-seated understanding of history, where ceding territory often leads to further aggression and loss of autonomy. This principle is enshrined not only in Ukraine’s constitution but also in various international agreements, such as the United Nations Charter, which emphasizes the inviolability of borders and the importance of respecting a nation’s sovereignty. For those advocating for justice and human rights, Ukraine’s fight is not just about land; it is about reaffirming the global commitment to uphold the principles that protect all nations from subjugation.
Moreover, the complex legal and political obstacles that Zelensky faces in negotiating peace underline the importance of democratic processes in resolving conflicts. The requirement for a national referendum to change Ukraine’s territorial status is a testament to the principles of democratic governance and the rule of law. It raises crucial questions about who holds the power to determine a nation’s fate. In a world where leaders often act unilaterally, Ukraine’s insistence on a democratic process for any territorial adjustments serves as a model for how nations should navigate conflict resolution. It emphasizes the need for any peace deal to reflect the will of the people, rather than being dictated by powerful external players.
The geopolitical dimensions of the Ukraine conflict also warrant critical examination. Zelensky’s meetings with international allies, including leaders from NATO and the U.S., underscore the importance of collective security in countering aggression. However, the historical reluctance of Western powers to fully commit to Ukraine’s defense raises questions about the sincerity of their support. The specter of a “land swap” as proposed by figures like former President Trump not only trivializes the sacrifices made by Ukrainians but also risks normalizing the idea that territorial concessions are a legitimate pathway to peace. This notion is particularly dangerous, as it could set a precedent for future aggressions against other nations, emboldening authoritarian regimes to pursue territorial ambitions under the guise of peace negotiations.
In conclusion, as the world watches the unfolding events in Ukraine, it is imperative to recognize that this conflict extends beyond military strategies and territorial disputes. It embodies the struggle for self-determination, the rule of law, and the collective responsibility to stand against tyranny. The implications of how this conflict is resolved will resonate for generations, shaping not just the future of Ukraine, but also the principles of international relations and human rights. Advocates for justice must not only support Zelensky’s unwavering stance but also challenge the narratives that seek to diminish the value of sovereignty and democratic processes in the face of aggression. The ongoing struggle in Ukraine is a critical chapter in the larger narrative of global resistance against authoritarianism, and it calls for solidarity, awareness, and advocacy from all corners of the globe.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine serves as a stark reminder of the historical struggles associated with sovereignty and territorial integrity, particularly in the face of aggressive expansionism. The recent article highlights the complex situation President Volodymyr Zelensky faces as he navigates the demands of Russian President Vladimir Putin while attempting to uphold the constitutional integrity of Ukraine. This clash is not merely a regional conflict; it represents a broader ideological battle between authoritarianism and democratic governance. For Americans and citizens worldwide, it is crucial to understand that the implications of this war extend beyond the borders of Ukraine and call for collective action and solidarity against oppressive regimes.
Historically, the region of Donbas has been a focal point of contention, symbolizing not only a geographical struggle but also a cultural and political one. The annexation of Crimea in 2014 set a precedent that emboldened further aggression from Russia, while the international community’s tepid responses raised questions about the efficacy of diplomatic measures in safeguarding democracy. The constitutional barriers Zelensky faces in ceding territory reflect a commitment to national sovereignty that resonates with democratic ideals. When leaders like Zelensky emphasize the inviolability of their nation’s borders, they are not merely speaking for their country—they embody the voices of millions who cherish freedom and self-determination. It is essential for Americans to recognize this historical context as it frames the current debate on foreign policy and military support.
The article also illustrates the precarious position Zelensky finds himself in, where any concession could be politically disastrous and could further embolden Russian aggression. The insistence on constitutional processes for territorial changes underlines a commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law. For Americans, this situation serves as a rallying point to advocate for robust support mechanisms for Ukraine, including military aid and humanitarian assistance. Engaging in discussions about the importance of support for countries that resist authoritarianism can help shift the narrative from isolationism to solidarity with those fighting for democratic values.
Moreover, the potential for negotiations involving territorial concessions brings to light the ethical implications of peace deals that favor aggressors. The notion of land swaps as a means to resolve conflicts inherently prioritizes the aggressor's demands over the victim's rights. It is imperative for Americans to advocate against such resolutions that undermine the sovereignty of nations. Engaging with elected representatives and participating in public forums to express opposition to any initiative that promotes the recognition of territorial gains achieved through aggression is a practical step. By amplifying voices that stress the importance of upholding international law and supporting those who resist occupation, citizens can contribute to a more principled stance on the global stage.
Educational initiatives are also vital in fostering awareness about the ramifications of international conflicts like that in Ukraine. By promoting understanding among citizens about the historical and political dimensions of such struggles, Americans can cultivate a more informed electorate equipped to challenge narratives that disregard international law or trivialize the sovereignty of nations. Grassroots campaigns, community discussions, and educational programs focused on the importance of democratic resilience can inspire activism and support for policies that align with the principles of justice and human rights.
In conclusion, the situation in Ukraine reflects a broader struggle against authoritarianism that transcends geographic boundaries. As Americans, we have the opportunity to engage in meaningful discourse, advocate for unwavering support of democratic nations, and reject any framework that legitimizes aggression. By understanding the historical context, emphasizing the importance of sovereignty, and engaging in advocacy efforts, we can contribute to a global movement that prioritizes democracy and human rights. The fight for Ukraine is not just about territorial integrity; it is about standing firm against the tide of oppression that seeks to undermine the very foundations of democratic society.
Analyzing the situation described in the article regarding the conflict in Ukraine and the potential for territorial concessions, here are actionable steps that individuals can take to contribute to a more just resolution and show support for Ukraine's sovereignty:
### Personal Actions to Take:
1. **Educate Yourself and Others**: - Stay informed about the ongoing conflict, its history, and the current political landscape. Share articles, videos, and other educational materials with your community to foster understanding. - Host discussion groups or informational sessions to engage friends and family in conversations about the conflict and the importance of sovereignty.
2. **Support Humanitarian Aid**: - Contribute to organizations that provide humanitarian aid to Ukraine. For example: - **GlobalGiving**: Supports various projects in Ukraine. Visit their site to donate or fundraise. - **Doctors Without Borders (MSF)**: Provides medical aid in conflict zones. Donations can be made through their website.
3. **Sign Petitions**: - Engage with existing petitions that demand support for Ukraine's sovereignty. Websites like Change.org and MoveOn.org often have active petitions you can sign and share. - Example Petition: Search for petitions that advocate for the U.S. government to increase military and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine.
4. **Contact Your Representatives**: - Write to your elected officials to express your views on the importance of supporting Ukraine's territorial integrity. Here’s how: - **Find Representatives**: Use websites like [GovTrack.us](https://www.govtrack.us/) or [Common Cause](https://www.commoncause.org/) to find contact information for your local representatives. - **Sample Email Template**: ``` Subject: Support for Ukraine's Sovereignty
Dear [Representative's Name],
I am writing to urge you to support policies that uphold the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. As the conflict continues, it is crucial that the U.S. stands firmly against any territorial concessions to Russia.
The Ukrainian people deserve our support in their fight for freedom and self-determination. I respectfully ask that you advocate for increased humanitarian and military assistance to Ukraine, ensuring that our government prioritizes their sovereignty in any discussions of peace.
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.
Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Email] ``` - **Addresses**: You can send physical letters to the district offices or Washington D.C. offices of your representatives. Check their official websites for mailing addresses.
5. **Engage on Social Media**: - Use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to raise awareness about Ukraine’s situation. Share posts that emphasize the need for support and solidarity with the Ukrainian people. - Consider organizing a social media campaign or using hashtags related to Ukraine to amplify your message.
6. **Attend Local Events or Rallies**: - Find local events or rallies that support Ukraine. These can help build community support and raise awareness about the conflict. - Examples include peace marches or fundraising events for Ukrainian aid.
7. **Support Ukrainian Businesses and Artists**: - Seek out and support Ukrainian-owned businesses or artists within your community. This can help sustain Ukrainian culture and economy during the conflict. - Purchase Ukrainian crafts, food, or art to show solidarity.
8. **Advocate for Policy Changes**: - Join or support advocacy groups focused on foreign policy and international relations. Organizations that specialize in human rights or international law may have campaigns specifically addressing the situation in Ukraine.
By engaging in these actions, individuals can contribute to a broader movement for support and respect for Ukraine's sovereignty, while also fostering a sense of community and awareness around this critical issue.