President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that Russian representatives at recent talks in Abu Dhabi claimed Moscow already occupies half of the Donbas territory that remains under Ukrainian control.
Mr Zelenskyy made the remarks after receiving a second report from his negotiating team. He said the claims came from Russian military officers and intelligence personnel who were serious about them. Ukrainian negotiators responded that the assertions were unfounded and pointed to video footage and images showing that the areas remain under Ukrainian control.
Mr Zelenskyy described the Russian position as detached from reality. He said President Vladimir Putin would tell American counterparts that Russia needs one or two months to complete the occupation of eastern Ukraine. He dismissed such statements, noting that he could equally claim to have occupied Russia in full, which would also be untrue.
He added that the American side confirmed the Ukrainian assessment of the situation on the battlefield.
Mr Zelenskyy said discussions must take place at the level of leaders because many issues remain unresolved. He cited the city of Kherson, which is divided by the river, with Russian forces controlling one bank and Ukrainian forces the other. He said residents wish to live united on both banks and that the city is Ukrainian. Such questions are sensitive but must be addressed.
He indicated that the negotiating teams would discuss the possibility of a meeting of leaders the following day. While he was unsure whether Russia is ready for such talks, Ukraine would raise the topic.
By John James
