Ukraine will never recognize the occupied territories as Russian, but is ready to return them sometime in the future, through diplomatic means, not by force of arms. President Volodymyr Zelensky stated this in an interview with Axios.

He commented on whether he would agree to any territorial concessions in order to conclude a deal that would end the war.

"We will never recognize these territories that are temporarily occupied by the Russians. We cannot do that. So, if you look at the situation today, will there be a ceasefire tomorrow? Everyone agrees that we do not have the strength to return these territories. So we are ready to talk about it. We are ready to return them sometime in the future, through diplomatic means, not by force of arms", - said Zelensky.

The President believes that this is a good compromise for everyone.