President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his thoughts on the process of de -occupation of annexed territories and emphasized the importance of returning not only physical but also mental aspects in the liberated regions.
According to Zelensky, the restoration of Crimea may be easier than the Donbass due to the lack of direct fighting on the peninsula. However, the head of state noted that in the Donbass the situation would be much more complicated due to the duration of occupation and military militarization of the region.
"It may happen that we will return the territory before these people. So it can be. For example, if we take Donbas, people live there for 10 years, live in another space and it is a long process. It can be different," the President said.
According to Zelensky, it is important to understand the psychological aspect of returning people who lived under occupation. He noted that this process can be extremely difficult because of a long war and a change in living conditions.
"Mentally, it may be more difficult with the Donbass. People live there for 10 years, live in another space and it is a long process," Zelensky added.
The President also emphasized the importance of preserving and supporting those who remained in the occupied territories. He emphasized the importance of supporting Ukrainian citizens who remain true to their country, even in the face of a military conflict.
The Ukrainian authorities continue to actively report on the need to withdraw Russian troops and restore territorial integrity. The initiative on possible peace talks was discussed, but has not yet led to specific results. Ukraine continues to maintain the position that there are no negotiations until Russian troops leave its territory.
The strategic goal of Ukraine in the war with Russia remains a complete restoration of territorial integrity, which includes the return to the borders of 1991.
