Introduction :
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly rejected recent proposals for a buffer zone between Ukrainian and Russian forces, calling them unrealistic and inconsistent with the realities of modern warfare. His remarks came in response to reports that European leaders had considered a 40 km (25-mile) demilitarized zone as part of a ceasefire or long-term peace agreement.
Why Zelensky Says the Idea Is Flawed :
Zelensky emphasized that any buffer zone proposals show a lack of understanding about drone-driven conflict:
“Only those who do not understand the technological state of today's war propose a buffer zone.” The Star
He explained that, due to constant drone strikes, heavy weapons are already deployed more than 10 km apart on both sides:
“This buffer — I call it a ‘dead zone’... it already exists.” RBC UkraineThe Star
Zelensky also pointed out practical challenges:
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Unclear Definitions: He questioned how such a zone would be measured—whether from borders or existing contact lines.
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Security Risks: With drones reaching far distances, buffer zones could fail to prevent bombardments.
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Territorial Losses: He noted that pulling troops back—for instance from cities like Kherson—could effectively cede control. “If our troops aren’t in Kherson, we won’t have Kherson.” Українська правдаRBC Ukraine
No Official Proposal Ever Reached Kyiv :
Zelensky underscored that Ukraine hasn't received any formal buffer zone proposal:
“Officially, Ukraine has not proposed anything like this… As of today, I don’t see this idea as viable.” Українська правдаUkrinform
He reiterated that any truce or peace mechanism must include a ceasefire first—only then can more complex arrangements be considered. UkrinformReddit
Broader Context: No Compromise on Sovereignty :
This stance reflects Ukraine’s broader commitment to protecting its sovereignty. Zelensky has repeatedly rejected any territorial concessions or “swapping,” whether in formal talks or as off-the-cuff suggestions. He invoked the Ukrainian constitution, which prohibits ceding territory:
“Ukrainians will not gift their land to the occupier.” TIMEAP NewsReuters
He also emphasized that Ukraine must be included in any discussions about its future:
“Any decisions made without Ukraine are decisions against peace.” TIMEAP News
What This Means for Peace Prospects :
Zelensky’s rejection of buffer zone proposals signals several key points:
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Tech-Driven Defense Realities: Solutions relying on physical separation are inadequate in a battlefield dominated by long-range drones and artillery.
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No Concessions on Territory: Ukraine remains unwavering in maintaining its territory, including Kherson and other front-line regions.
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Ceasefire First: Peace must begin with an actual halt in fighting; otherwise, any zone or zone-like mechanisms are meaningless.
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Ukraine Must Be at the Table: No agreement regarding Ukraine should proceed without Kyiv’s active participation.
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Conclusion :
President Zelensky's sharp dismissal of buffer zone proposals underscores Ukraine’s insistence on realistic, sovereignty-respecting approaches to peace. In a warfare landscape transformed by drones and long-range weapons, ideas grounded in Cold War-era thinking simply fall short. Any path forward must begin with a ceasefire, include Kyiv in negotiations, and uphold the inviolability of Ukrainian territory.
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