Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made this statement, as reported by RBK-Ukraine, referencing his interview with NBC News. This was also noted by Kontakty.UA.
"Legally, we do not recognize... our occupied territory as part of Russia. We will never do that," Zelensky stated.
He also mentioned that he is open to discussing the relinquishment of the occupied territory as part of a diplomatic agreement that would allow Ukraine to join NATO.
"Yes, we need to reclaim it (the occupied territory - ed.) through diplomatic means. Yes, we can. If we are in NATO, then it's clear why through diplomatic means, that's very clear," the president asserted.
He pointed out that the priority is to avoid losing people. According to Zelensky, Ukraine will seek a good diplomatic path to recover territorial losses, but "people are the most important thing today."
The president also expressed his belief that Ukraine can achieve military victory in the war.
"Of course, yes. But there will be many losses. We understand how significant they are. I think it’s too much. And I’m not sure if it can happen at this pace. If our partners do not help, do not support, it will be difficult. It will take longer. Longer than it could be," he explained.
Recall that in the same interview, Zelensky stated that he does not believe Russian dictator Vladimir Putin's claims of a supposed willingness to cease fire. Additionally, he believes that negotiations with him would turn into a "dialogue with a terrorist".