On February 15, 2026, during a briefing at the Munich Security Conference, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy articulated his views on the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine and the situation in Donetsk Oblast. He stated that proposals suggesting Ukraine withdraw its military forces from Donbas are perilous and reflect Russia's broader strategy of territorial expansion.
Zelenskyy asserted that "the minimum they want is the complete occupation of Donbas," indicating that Russia seeks to achieve a narrative of victory for its citizens. This perception is crucial for President Vladimir Putin, who may need it to justify his military actions not only to the Russian populace but also within his own calculations of power.
Describing the stakes, Zelenskyy noted, “If we give him [Putin] the chance to feel such a victory, we don't know what he will do next.” He highlighted the historical mistakes of underestimating Russia's ambitions, referencing how the invasion began with unmarked soldiers in 2014, which escalated into overt military actions by 2022.
The Ukrainian leader emphasized that the country cannot abandon territories inhabited by its citizens, underscoring the strategic and moral imperative to defend all of Ukraine's sovereign lands. He invoked the memory of Afghanistan's withdrawal and the implications of insufficient protections, conveying that full control of disputed territories cannot be guaranteed, even with international forces present.
Zelenskyy also revealed that talks are set to occur in Geneva on February 17-18, suggesting that while the U.S. is pushing for rapid negotiations, Ukraine's priority is securing definitive security guarantees before making any territorial concessions. The outcomes of these talks will be crucial in shaping the future of Ukraine's territorial integrity amidst ongoing Russian aggression.
The conflict in Ukraine remains a volatile situation, and Zelenskyy's remarks reflect a deep understanding of the geopolitical complexities involved. As the dialogue continues, the potential for both diplomatic solutions and military escalations looms heavily on the horizon.