Russia has firmly dismissed the idea of exchanging Ukrainian territory under its control for regions in the Kursk area occupied by Ukrainian forces, shortly after launching a significant drone and missile attack on Kyiv that resulted in the death of one individual. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that the proposal, suggested by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a recent interview, was "impossible."
Peskov emphasized that Russia has never entertained discussions about trading its territory, asserting that any Ukrainian forces present in Russian territory would face either destruction or expulsion. This statement comes in the wake of ongoing military tensions, with Ukraine having previously conducted a swift incursion into the Kursk region, capturing portions of land. Currently, Russian forces are engaged in efforts to reclaim these areas.
In the broader context of this conflict, Russia maintains control over nearly 20 percent of Ukraine, totaling more than 112,000 square kilometers. Conversely, Ukrainian forces hold approximately 450 square kilometers within the Kursk region, as indicated by open-source battlefield maps.
President Zelenskyy remarked on the possibility of territorial exchanges, stating, “We will swap one territory for another,” although he did not specify which areas might be involved. He underlined the significance of all Ukrainian territories, noting that none should be prioritized over others.
The Kremlin’s rejection of the proposed exchange coincided with a violent attack on Kyiv, where Russian missiles struck civilian infrastructure, resulting in casualties and damage to residential and commercial buildings. Following the assault, Zelenskyy condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin’s actions, asserting that he is "not preparing for peace" and continues to perpetrate violence against Ukrainians.
Zelenskyy called for unified international support to counter what he described as ongoing terror from Russia. He is scheduled to meet with U.S. Vice President JD Vance at the Munich Security Conference, where discussions may focus on strategies to halt the conflict. The U.S. has been involved in diplomatic efforts, with special envoy Keith Kellogg expected to visit Ukraine next week to propose a framework for negotiations.
In a separate statement, former President Donald Trump suggested that Ukraine could eventually become part of Russia, a remark that has sparked controversy and raised questions about U.S. foreign policy regarding the ongoing war.