(TJV NEWS) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday firmly dismissed the idea of ceding territory to Russia after U.S. President Donald Trump suggested a Ukraine–Russia peace deal could involve “some swapping of territories,” The New York Times reported.

“Ukrainians will not gift their land to the occupier,” Zelensky said in a video address from Kyiv, hours after Trump’s remarks. He stressed that any agreements made without Ukraine’s participation were “dead decisions” that would not bring peace.

Trump, speaking Friday, said he plans to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on August 15 to discuss a possible peace deal, suggesting, “There’ll be some swapping of territories to the betterment of both.” He did not specify which areas he meant. As The New York Times noted, Ukraine currently holds no Russian territory, meaning any swap would involve Kyiv giving up land it controls in exchange for areas under Russian occupation.

The proposal clashes with overwhelming public sentiment in Ukraine against surrendering land. A recent poll found more than three-quarters of Ukrainians oppose giving Russia Ukrainian-controlled territory, even if it would prolong the war. Zelensky underscored that Ukraine’s Constitution defines its territory as indivisible and inviolable, saying, “No one will step back from this.”

Russia claims to have annexed four Ukrainian regions in 2022, including parts of Luhansk and Donetsk, and continues to push for full control of them. Ukrainian officials warn that ceding such areas would strengthen Russia militarily and politically, potentially setting the stage for renewed conflict.

As The New York Times reported, Zelensky said he was ready to work “together with President Trump and with all our partners” for a genuine, lasting peace — but not one that rewards Russian aggression.