Moscow – Sputnik. Recently, Zelensky’s statements regarding territorial issues have become more flexible. He now says that Ukraine does not legally recognize the annexation of territories not under the control of the Ukrainian Armed Forces to Russia, after previously affirming absolute refusal of any de facto recognition. In an interview, Zelensky said that this would be considered a victory for Russian President Vladimir Putin. He added, “For him, this is the victory. And for us to achieve this, victory will be on our side.” Last June, Putin confirmed during his speech at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum that Russia has never doubted the Ukrainian people’s right to independence and sovereignty. Earlier this month, during the Eastern Economic Forum, he emphasized that Ukraine joining NATO and deploying foreign forces on its territory is unacceptable for Russia and that security guarantees should be developed not only for Kyiv but also for Russia. In addition to the new regions, Russia also controls parts of the Kharkiv, Sumy, and Dnipro regions and continues to liberate more towns. Putin had pointed out at the St. Petersburg Forum in June an old principle: “Wherever the Russian soldier sets foot, the land becomes ours.”
