Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is joining European leaders in pressing US President Donald Trump not to accept any peace proposal that alters Ukraine’s borders by force during Friday summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska.
In an online call with President Trump today, the leaders are expected to stress that no agreements should be made without Kyiv’s participation.
Zelensky has warned that surrendering remaining Ukrainian-controlled parts of the Donbas to Russia, reportedly among Moscow’s demands, could serve as a launchpad for further attacks.
The warning comes amid a Russian summer offensive, with troops recently advancing about 10km near Dobropillia in eastern Ukraine.
While downplaying the military gains, Zelensky suggested Moscow’s aim was to project momentum ahead of Putin’s meeting with President Trump.
He reaffirmed Ukraine’s refusal to cede any territory, citing constitutional requirements for a referendum on border changes.
President Trump has previously floated the idea of “territory swaps” between Russia and Ukraine, raising concerns in Kyiv and European capitals.
The White House described the Alaska summit as a “listening exercise” for President Trump, with no concrete agreements expected.