In a strategic move to end the ongoing conflict, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed a land swap with Russia. In an interview with The Guardian, Zelensky suggested that Ukraine could exchange territories it currently controls in Russia’s Kursk region for areas occupied by Russian forces within Ukraine.
Ukraine seized parts of Russia’s Kursk Oblast during a surprise incursion in August, gaining control over approximately 500 square kilometers. Meanwhile, Russia occupies about 20% of Ukrainian territory. Zelensky emphasized that all Ukrainian territories are significant, stating, “All our territories are important, there is no priority.”
This proposal comes as President Donald Trump prioritizes ending the war in Ukraine. The Trump administration has engaged in discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, aiming to broker a peace deal. Vice President J.D. Vance and other officials are currently in Europe, meeting with allies and Ukrainian representatives to explore potential resolutions. A meeting between Trump and Zelensky is anticipated following the Munich Security Conference.
However, the Kremlin has firmly rejected the idea of exchanging Ukrainian land for parts of the Kursk region. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia would not consider such a trade and emphasized that Russian forces intend to expel Ukrainian units from Kursk.
Zelensky also expressed concerns about maintaining American support, highlighting the importance of U.S. involvement in providing genuine security guarantees. To incentivize continued U.S. backing, he has proposed offering American companies lucrative reconstruction contracts and investment opportunities in Ukraine.
As the conflict approaches its third year, Zelensky’s land swap proposal represents a significant shift in Ukraine’s strategy to achieve peace. The success of this initiative will depend on complex negotiations and the willingness of both parties to make concessions.