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, such as North and South Korea, but Zelensky emphasized that there are already areas on either side of the front line where heavy artillery operation is limited due to drone fire risks. Today, our heavy weapons are located at a distance of more than 10km from each other, because everything is hit by drones, he explained.
This 'buffer' he referred to as a 'dead zone' or 'grey zone' appears to already be operational.
Zelensky firmly rejected any deal that might involve Ukraine ceding territory, stating, If Russia wants to have a greater distance from us, they can retreat deep into the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine. He also noted that Russia is not currently interested in diplomacy but is instead looking to postpone the war's conclusion.
As diplomatic efforts to end the protracted conflict stall, the conflict continues, affecting civilian populations as highlighted by a recent surge in aerial attacks on Kyiv, which have resulted in multiple fatalities and widespread destruction.
