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US, Ukraine discussed 'some ideas' on issue of territory, Zelenskiy says

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on January 6, 2026

2 min read

· Last updated: January 20, 2026

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US, Ukraine discussed 'some ideas' on issue of territory, Zelenskiy says
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KYIV, Jan 6 (Reuters) - U.S. and Ukrainian officials discussed "some ideas" to address the issue of territory during peace talks to end Russia's war on Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on

US, Ukraine Explore Territorial Solutions in Peace Talks

KYIV, Jan 6 (Reuters) - U.S. and Ukrainian officials discussed "some ideas" to address the issue of territory during peace talks to end Russia's war on Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Tuesday, describing the matter as the biggest remaining obstacle in the process.

Ukraine is under U.S. pressure to quickly secure a peace deal that could include painful concessions, but has refused to accept Russian demands that it cede land it still controls in eastern Donbas.

"The biggest issue that needs to be worked on is the territorial issue. We discussed some ideas that might help," Zelenskiy said in Paris after a meeting with European allies to hash out security guarantees for Kyiv.

"If the teams are unable to resolve certain issues, the matter can be brought to the leaders' level."

Separately, White House special envoy Steve Witkoff told reporters that land options were discussed during the Paris talks, and that discussions would continue.

The Ukrainian delegation would remain in Paris for further consultations, Zelenskiy added. 

Ukraine had said earlier that the U.S. offered the idea of a free economic zone if Kyiv withdraws from parts of the Donetsk region that Ukrainian forces still control.

(Reporting by Yuliia Dysa; Writing by Dan Peleschuk. Editing by Mark Potter and Nia Williams)

Key Takeaways

  • US and Ukraine discussed territorial issues in peace talks.
  • Territory remains a major obstacle in ending the conflict.
  • Ukraine resists ceding land in eastern Donbas to Russia.
  • US proposed a free economic zone for territorial concessions.
  • Further consultations to continue in Paris.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is territory in the context of international relations?
Territory refers to a defined geographical area that is recognized as belonging to a specific state or nation, often a central issue in conflicts and peace negotiations.
What is a free economic zone?
A free economic zone is a designated area within a country where businesses can operate with fewer regulations and lower taxes, intended to attract foreign investment and stimulate economic growth.

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