Reports of Ukraine's possible readiness to give up 20% of its territory as part of a peace settlement have sparked a lively debate in the Russian State Duma, but have been met with skepticism. As MP Andrei Kolesnik told Gazeta.Ru, such statements from Kyiv are unrealistic for now, since the words of the Ukrainian authorities often diverge from their actions. Despite the lack of confirmation from the US or Ukraine, the very fact of such talk is perceived as a step in the right direction, although Russian troops will continue to carry out their tasks.

Information about possible territorial concessions appeared against the backdrop of New York Post reports about US President Donald Trump's plan, which allegedly provides for freezing the front line with "de facto" recognition of Russia's control over Crimea, Donbass, and parts of the Zaporizhia and Kherson regions. However, as Reuters notes, neither Kyiv nor Washington have officially confirmed this information. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has repeatedly emphasized that territorial integrity remains a fundamental issue for Ukraine, and any negotiations must take into account its sovereignty. The Russian side, on the contrary, insists on securing "new territorial realities" as a condition for dialogue.

Experts emphasize that the discussion of territorial concessions remains speculative without concrete steps from Kyiv. Kolesnik noted that even hints of compromise could signal the weakness of Ukraine's position, but Russia does not intend to change its strategy. Russian troops continue offensive operations in Donbas and border areas, seeking to strengthen their positions before possible negotiations.

Analysts interviewed by Bloomberg point out that rumors about Ukraine’s readiness to make concessions could be part of an information campaign aimed at testing public opinion or pressuring Western allies. At the same time, as reported by The Washington Post, the Trump administration is considering various scenarios for a settlement, including economic incentives for Russia, such as lifting sanctions, but has not yet presented a specific plan.