Demand Transparent, Just Peace Negotiations for Ukraine—No Land for Peace Deals Behind Closed Doors

The ongoing war in Ukraine has brought devastation to millions and threatens the principles of sovereignty and self-determination. Recent reports suggest that world leaders, including President Zelensky, are being pressured to accept a so-called 'land for peace' deal that would see Ukraine forced to surrender occupied regions to Russia. Such an agreement, made under duress or behind closed doors, would legitimize illegal annexations and reward aggression.

We are deeply concerned by the lack of transparency and the exclusion of Ukrainian civil society from these critical talks. The people of Ukraine have repeatedly rejected any peace agreement that involves giving up their land. International law is clear: borders cannot be changed by force, and the rights of people living under occupation must be respected.

We call on all leaders involved in the Washington negotiations to:

• Reject any settlement that trades Ukrainian territory for peace.
• Ensure all negotiations are transparent and include Ukrainian civil society and displaced persons.
• Guarantee that any agreement upholds Ukraine’s sovereignty and international law.
• Provide meaningful security guarantees for Ukraine, not just empty promises.
• Hold Russia accountable for war crimes and illegal annexations.

This is a pivotal moment. The world must not reward aggression or allow powerful nations to carve up weaker ones for their own interests. Stand with Ukraine’s people—demand justice, transparency, and a real, lasting peace.