Ukraine may have to give up land for peace – Kyiv Mayor Klitschko

Kyiv's mayor, Vitali Klitschko, spoke to the BBC about peace with Russia. He mentioned that Ukraine might need to give up land for a deal. This comes amid pressure from President Donald Trump for territorial concessions.

Klitschko said, "One of the scenarios is… to give up territory." He added that it’s unfair but could be a temporary solution for peace. However, he emphasized that Ukrainians would "never accept occupation" by Russia.

His comments followed a Russian missile and drone attack on Kyiv. This attack killed 12 people and injured over 80. It was one of the deadliest assaults on Kyiv in months.

Since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, it controls about 20% of Ukraine. Klitschko described Kyiv as "the heart" of Ukraine and noted his responsibility for the capital. He suggested President Volodymyr Zelensky might face a "painful solution" for peace.

Klitschko is among senior Ukrainian leaders indicating possible territorial concessions. When asked if Zelensky discussed settlement details with him, Klitschko replied, “No.” He stated that Zelensky handles those discussions himself.

Klitschko and Zelensky are political opponents. The mayor has accused the president of undermining his authority. He also suggested key issues should be discussed privately rather than publicly.

Recently, Trump criticized Zelensky for harming peace negotiations. This came after Zelensky ruled out recognizing Russian control over Crimea. Trump claimed Crimea “was lost years ago” and is not currently negotiable.

Zelensky referenced a 2018 declaration by Mike Pompeo rejecting Russia's annexation of Crimea. Meanwhile, Ukraine and its European allies are concerned about Trump's improving relations with Putin's Russia.