Ukraine highlights its key demands for a peaceful resolution of the war with Russia.

Kyiv worries that Ukraine might be excluded from negotiations, while President Trump’s meeting with Putin could bolster the Russian leader’s position during a time when Russia is feeling the effects of the war. Ukraine’s primary demands for a peaceful settlement are:

1. A long-term ceasefire before any territorial changes – Ukraine is not willing to compromise on its borders.
2. Compensation for damages – Moscow must pay hundreds of billions of dollars for the destruction it has caused.
3. Ukrainian children are returned and prisoners of war are released – over 1,400 Ukrainian children abducted by Russia have returned, but around 20,000 are still in Russia; prisoner exchanges are ongoing, but Moscow is limiting international observers’ access.
4. Security guarantees – Ukraine’s membership in both NATO and the EU is viewed as a key way to prevent further aggression.
5. Continued sanctions against Russia – Kyiv and its allies intend to maintain pressure on Moscow in order to prevent a new offensive.

Ukrainian officials stress that even if compromises are necessary due to wartime realities, discussions on territorial issues should only happen after achieving a stable ceasefire.