Zelensky SLAMS calls for Ukraine to cede territory to Russia in peace bid

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday savaged suggestions that Kyiv give up territory and make concessions to end the war with Russia, saying the idea smacked of attempts to appease Nazi Germany in 1938. The angry comments by Zelenskiy come as Ukrainian troops are facing a renewed offensive in two eastern regions that Russian-speaking separatists seized part of in 2014. The New York Times editorial board said on May 19 that a negotiated peace might require Kyiv to make some hard decisions, given that a decisive military victory was not realistic. And former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger this week suggested at the World Economic Forum in Davos that Ukraine should let Russia keep Crimea, which it annexed in 2014. "Whatever the Russian state does, you will always find someone who says 'Let's take its interests into account'," Zelenskiy said in a late night video address. "You get the impression that Mr Kissinger doesn't have 2022 on his calendar, but 1938, and that he thinks he is talking to an audience not in Davos but in then Munich." In 1938, Britain, France, Italy and Germany sighed a pact in Munich that gave Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler land in the then Czechoslovakia as part of a failed attempt to persuade him to abandon further territorial expansion. "Perhaps the New York Times also wrote something similar in 1938. But let me remind you, it's now 2022," said Zelensky. "Those who advise Ukraine to give something to Russia, these 'great geopolitical figures', never see ordinary people, ordinary Ukrainians, millions living on the territory they are proposing to exchange for an illusory peace." Italy and Hungary have urged the European Union to call explicitly for a ceasefire in Ukraine and peace talks with Russia, putting themselves at odds with other member states determined to take a hard line with Moscow. Russia's foreign ministry spokeswoman earlier said an Italian peace plan for Ukraine was a "fantasy." With its invasion now into its fourth month, Russia still has only limited gains to show for its worst military losses in decades, while much of Ukraine has suffered devastation as Moscow steps up strikes to offset its slow progress. The Russian parliament scrapped the upper age limit for contractual service in the military on Wednesday, highlighting the need to replace lost troops. In his late night video address, Zelenskiy, commenting on the new Russian enlistment rules, said: "(They) no longer have enough young men, but they still have the will to fight. It will still take time to crush this will." The Sun newspaper brings you the latest breaking news videos and explainers from the UK and around the world Become a Sun Subscriber and hit the bell to be the first to know Explore the intricate world of global politics with The Sun's reporting and in-depth analysis. We’ll bring you crucial updates on international relations, major events, and political shifts impacting nations worldwide. Follow the actions of key world leaders, major international organisations and the unfolding dynamics of global power. Our coverage includes the war in Ukraine, the deadly situation in the Middle East and the complex relationship between global superpowers. Subscribe now for essential insights into global politics. The Sun brings you breaking news and in-depth analysis on the stories that matter most. From the ongoing war in Ukraine to conflicts in the Middle East and US and UK politics, we post updates as they happen. Expect the latest on major global events, pressing political debates, celebrity updates and exclusive royal family content, along with in-depth investigations and expert commentary. Get comprehensive coverage of Donald Trump's Presidency, Vladimir Putin's actions, and the unfolding drama of the British Royal Family. Subscribe now for daily updates and exclusive content from The Sun. https://www.youtube.com/c/thesun?sub_... Read The Sun: https://bit.ly/3Tay1OY Like The Sun on Facebook:   / thesun   Follow The Sun on TikTok:   / ucizxayrp7-p0anpq-nd-h5g   Subscribe to The Sun on Snapchat:   / 1633225139