Ukraine Would Pause Front-Line Combat but Won't Cede Land

Kyiv, October 25: Ukraine is willing to halt military operations on its current front lines to help end the war sooner, but President Volodymyr Zelensky insisted that the country will not surrender any territory.

In an interview with an American broadcaster, Zelensky said he is ready to work toward a ceasefire agreement. He categorically rejected a proposal under which Ukraine would leave behind about 25 percent of its land.

He also voiced worry about the reduced flow of US military aid. Over the past three months, Zelensky said, Ukraine has received only 24 interceptor missiles for its Patriot air defence system, although the monthly requirement is close to 350.

He stressed the urgency of the situation, noting that 30 ballistic missiles struck Kyiv on Thursday night.

According to American media reports, Washington is intensifying pressure on Kyiv to make concessions in order to reach a peace deal. Trump has said several times that Ukraine is also responsible for the lack of advances in talks mediated by the United States.

On Friday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that trilateral talks among Russia, Ukraine and the United States are expected in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, during the first half of November. The discussions will chiefly address security arrangements for Russia and Ukraine that could follow a potential peace agreement.

Zelensky has also indicated that Ukraine is prepared for a trilateral session with Washington and Moscow in Abu Dhabi next month.

In an online address to the Hudson Institute, a US think tank, Zelensky said the timing of the meeting will largely hinge on Russia's position, though it is currently planned for early November. He added that European representatives should also take part.

Zelensky called for talks at the leaders' level, arguing that the process has moved beyond technical-level discussions. Several major questions, he said, can be resolved only at a top-leadership summit, and such meetings are essential for building a durable peace.