Zelensky: Ukraine Will Hold Russian-Occupied Territories Until Putin Is Forced to Negotiate

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated in an interview with NBC News that Ukraine will retain control of Russian-occupied territories until Russian dictator Vladimir Putin is compelled to come to the negotiating table.

Zelensky emphasized that holding these territories is an integral part of Ukraine’s “victory plan” to bring an end to the war. “We need them first,” Zelensky remarked, referring to the territories currently under Ukrainian control within Russia.

However, Zelensky did not specify whether Ukraine plans to capture additional Russian territory.

The Ukrainian operation in Russia’s Kursk Oblast has been ongoing since August 6, with Ukraine currently controlling over 100 settlements in the region.