Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said any serious talks to end the war must come after Russia pulls all of its forces out of Ukrainian territory. His remarks underscore Kyiv’s position that diplomacy cannot move forward while Russian troops remain in occupied areas.

The statement comes as fighting continues across several fronts, with no sign of a breakthrough in efforts to halt the conflict. Ukraine has consistently argued that any settlement must respect its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Moscow has given no indication it is prepared to accept a full withdrawal, keeping the prospects for negotiations uncertain. For now, the war remains locked in place, with civilians on both sides continuing to bear the cost of the prolonged fighting.