Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko has suggested that Ukraine might need to consider temporarily ceding territory to Russia as part of a peace deal. In a recent BBC interview, Klitschko acknowledged that while such a concession would be “unfair,” it could serve as a temporary solution to end hostilities. However, he emphasized that Ukrainians would “never accept occupation” and that any agreement would require public support. Klitschko also noted that President Volodymyr Zelensky might face a “painful solution” to achieve peace.
This statement comes amid escalating violence, including a recent Russian missile and drone attack on Kyiv that killed 12 people and injured over 80. Klitschko criticized the lack of consultation with him on peace negotiations, highlighting the need for unity and transparency in such critical matters. He also suggested that key issues between top politicians should be discussed “without video cameras.”
The possibility of territorial concessions has been a point of contention, with U.S. President Donald Trump proposing a peace plan that includes recognizing Russian control of Crimea, a proposal that Ukrainian officials have rejected. Klitschko’s comments indicate a shift in Ukraine’s stance, acknowledging that peace may require difficult compromises.
In a previous interview, Klitschko suggested that President Zelensky would likely need to hold a referendum to legitimize any territorial compromises, as such decisions would be politically sensitive and require public approval.
The situation remains fluid, with ongoing discussions about the best path to peace while maintaining Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.