Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected proposals for a buffer zone between Ukrainian and Russian forces as part of a peace deal, arguing it does not reflect the realities of modern warfare. Only those who do not understand the technological state of today's war propose a buffer zone, he told reporters on Friday. His comments followed a report suggesting European leaders were considering a 40km (25-mile) buffer zone as part of either a ceasefire or longer-term agreement.
The war in Ukraine has evolved into a conflict driven by drone technology, and Zelensky suggested a buffer zone of sorts already existed because of the threat of drone strikes close to the front line. Buffer zones can create demilitarised zones between warring countries, but Zelensky emphasized that heavy artillery operations are restricted by the risk of drone fire.
He stated, Today, our heavy weapons are located at a distance of more than 10km from each other, because everything is hit by drones. The proposal for a buffer zone has been met with skepticism by Zelensky, who indicated that any such arrangement could imply Ukraine conceding territory, something he dismissed by urging Russia to retreat deeper into occupied territories if they seek additional distance.
These remarks come amid a backdrop of heightened military activity, including a massive aerial assault on Kyiv, which resulted in civilian casualties. International efforts to encourage negotiations appear to stall, with Zelensky suggesting that Russia is not interested in genuine diplomacy but rather delaying the conflict. As discussions for security guarantees for Ukraine continue among European leaders, the overall prospects for peace seem increasingly elusive.
The war in Ukraine has evolved into a conflict driven by drone technology, and Zelensky suggested a buffer zone of sorts already existed because of the threat of drone strikes close to the front line. Buffer zones can create demilitarised zones between warring countries, but Zelensky emphasized that heavy artillery operations are restricted by the risk of drone fire.
He stated, Today, our heavy weapons are located at a distance of more than 10km from each other, because everything is hit by drones. The proposal for a buffer zone has been met with skepticism by Zelensky, who indicated that any such arrangement could imply Ukraine conceding territory, something he dismissed by urging Russia to retreat deeper into occupied territories if they seek additional distance.
These remarks come amid a backdrop of heightened military activity, including a massive aerial assault on Kyiv, which resulted in civilian casualties. International efforts to encourage negotiations appear to stall, with Zelensky suggesting that Russia is not interested in genuine diplomacy but rather delaying the conflict. As discussions for security guarantees for Ukraine continue among European leaders, the overall prospects for peace seem increasingly elusive.
