Zelenskyy: Europe cannot guarantee Ukraine’s security without America
GuardianFEB 19
Russia Rejects Zelenskyy's Territory Swap Proposal
Above: Zelenskyy and Trump at the Elysee Presidential Palace in Paris, France, on Dec. 7, 2024. Image copyright: Ukrainian Presidency/Contributor/Handout/Anadolu via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-Ukraine narrative
Zelenskyy's territorial swap proposal highlights Ukraine's willingness to negotiate pragmatically for peace while maintaining its sovereignty. The offer aims to leverage Ukraine's control of Kursk to secure the return of other occupied territories, while also seeking crucial security guarantees from Western allies to ensure long-term stability.
Pro-Russia narrative
Any discussion of exchanging Russian territory is completely unacceptable and impossible. Ukrainian forces occupying Russian land will face elimination or expulsion, and Russia will maintain its position on the territories it currently controls. The continued missile strikes on Ukrainian targets demonstrate Russia's military resolve.