# Zelensky Seeks Genuine Peace Amid Ongoing Ukraine-Russia Negotiations Ukraine pursues security guarantees while rejecting territorial concessions as a path to lasting peace. - **Source:** [Le Monde – À la une](https://www.lemonde.fr) - **Published:** 2026-11-10 - **Topic:** [world](https://brifing.si/c/world) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/a9db5176-f155-4061-8674-1ca44245affb ## Diplomatic Efforts in Abu Dhabi Negotiations involving Ukraine, the United States, and Russia are currently underway in Abu Dhabi. French and Ukrainian diplomats have publicly welcomed American efforts to secure partial truces. These discussions are viewed as a critical initial step toward achieving a complete and unconditional ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between the two nations. ## Zelensky Rejects Territorial Concessions President Volodymyr Zelensky firmly dismissed the idea of ceding the Donbas region to Russia in exchange for peace. He characterized such proposals as abstract and ineffective, arguing that Vladimir Putin would not stop his aggression even if territorial demands were met. Zelensky emphasized that previous security promises have historically failed to protect Ukraine. ## Historical Context of Security Zelensky referenced the 1994 Budapest Memorandum, where Ukraine surrendered its nuclear arsenal in exchange for security guarantees that were ultimately violated. He noted that Russia subsequently blocked Ukraine's integration into European structures and NATO before launching the full-scale invasion in February 2022, reinforcing his skepticism toward simple, non-binding peace agreements. ## Strategic Strikes on Russian Infrastructure The Ukrainian military recently targeted a repair facility in Staraia Russa, located in the Novgorod region. This site is essential for maintaining Russian A-50 radar detection aircraft and military transport planes. The strike aims to degrade Russia's long-term operational capabilities by keeping these specialized aircraft grounded for extended periods of time. ## Nordic Support and Diplomacy President Zelensky arrived in Denmark to meet with leaders from Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland. These Nordic nations remain among Ukraine's most significant international supporters. Discussions in Copenhagen focus on strengthening Ukraine's air defense systems and ensuring long-term energy security, marking Zelensky's fifth visit to the country since the year 2023. ## Danish Military and Energy Aid The Danish government announced a new military aid package for Ukraine valued at approximately 4.8 billion Danish kroner, roughly 642 million euros. Additionally, Denmark pledged 150 million kroner, about 20 million euros, to support the Ukrainian energy sector. This financial commitment underscores the ongoing material support provided by European allies to Kyiv. ## NATO Baltic Sea Exercises Eight NATO member countries, including Germany, France, and the United Kingdom, are conducting the 'Dynamic Merlin' naval exercise in the Baltic Sea. The training focuses on anti-submarine warfare and detecting ultra-silent vessels. These maneuvers aim to maintain critical maritime security skills amidst heightened regional tensions following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. ## Protecting Critical Infrastructure The Baltic Sea region has become a focal point for NATO surveillance due to the presence of vital underwater telecommunications cables and energy pipelines. The alliance has significantly increased its naval presence to safeguard this infrastructure. Continuous training is deemed necessary to ensure the transparency of these waters against potential underwater threats. ## Commitment to Sovereign Integrity European and American representatives reaffirmed their commitment to a strong European security architecture. A joint declaration emphasized that any future peace agreement must strictly respect Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence. This stance serves as a unified front against potential Russian attempts to dictate terms that undermine Ukraine's long-term national security. ## Constructive Path to De-escalation Volodymyr Zelensky expressed a willingness to work constructively on de-escalation measures and effective security guarantees. However, he stressed that a 'genuine peace' requires Russia to demonstrate a reciprocal commitment to these goals. The Ukrainian leadership remains focused on obtaining detailed reports from the ongoing negotiation teams regarding the progress of talks. ## The Reality of Russian Intentions Zelensky warned that any pause in hostilities without comprehensive security guarantees would merely allow Russia to regroup. He argued that Vladimir Putin's past actions demonstrate a pattern of using temporary ceasefires to prepare for future aggression. Consequently, Ukraine insists on robust, enforceable international guarantees rather than vague promises of future stability. ## Future Outlook for Peace The path toward a lasting resolution remains complex, involving a delicate balance of military pressure and diplomatic engagement. While international partners push for partial truces, the Ukrainian government maintains that true security requires a fundamental shift in Russian policy. The coming weeks will be decisive in determining if these negotiations yield results. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.lemonde.fr/international/live/2026/11/10/en-direct-guerre-en-ukraine-tout-accord-sur-l-ukraine-doit-respecter-son-integrite-territoriale-affirment-europeens-et-americains_6808609_3210.html — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._