European countries are ready for a deal under which Ukraine would cede some territories to Russia – FT

Key European countries are generally in agreement on resolving the military conflict between Moscow and Kyiv through a settlement in which Ukraine would cede some of its territory to Russia.

This was reported by the British newspaper Financial Times, citing sources familiar with the negotiations.

According to the article, the UK, France, and Germany are “trying to find space for a deal that wouldn’t force Ukraine to cross all of its red lines, but could ultimately lead to some territorial concessions from Kyiv as the end point of negotiations.”

At the same time, the major EU powers remain opposed to officially recognizing Russia’s sovereignty over Crimea, and Ukraine relies on that position in its negotiations.

“Zelensky, having secured the support of European capitals, continues to firmly refuse to officially recognize Russia’s sovereignty over any Ukrainian territory,” the article states.

Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump said that Ukraine is not being asked to recognize Crimea as Russian. Based on various media reports, the White House is planning to recognize Crimea unilaterally as part of its peace plan to resolve the Russia–Ukraine conflict. In this scenario, neither Ukraine nor Europe would be required to formally agree to any decision regarding Crimea.