EU Warns Against Land Concessions to Russia as Ukraine War Escalates

Brussels/Kyiv – The European Union’s top diplomat has cautioned Ukraine’s allies against accepting Russia’s demands for territorial concessions, describing it as a “trap” set by Vladimir Putin.

Speaking to the BBC, Kaja Kallas stressed that allowing Moscow to hold on to Ukrainian territory would undermine peace and embolden further aggression. She warned that ceding land, such as the eastern Donbas region, would not bring stability but instead reward escalation.

Ukraine Rejects Concessions Amid Trump’s Remarks

Kyiv has repeatedly refused to negotiate over territorial losses. However, former U.S. president Donald Trump has suggested the idea of a “territory swap” as part of a potential peace deal—an idea echoed by Moscow but strongly rejected by Ukraine.

Kallas insisted that Ukraine’s security can only be guaranteed by strengthening its own defenses, saying:

“The strongest security guarantee is a strong Ukrainian army.”

Russia’s Latest Strikes Escalate Tensions

The warnings came as Russia carried out one of its heaviest aerial assaults of the year. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said Moscow launched 574 drones and 40 missiles, targeting multiple cities—including a US-owned electronics plant in western Ukraine.

Calling the attack “outrageous,” Zelensky said the deliberate strike on American infrastructure highlighted Russia’s disregard for ongoing peace initiatives.

Hungary Offers to Host Peace Talks

Meanwhile, Hungary has reiterated its willingness to host peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. Foreign minister Peter Szijjarto said Budapest could provide a “safe and fair” venue if required, though he denied reports of recent calls between President Trump and Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orbán about Ukraine’s EU membership.

Energy Concerns in Europe

Separately, the German Economy Ministry confirmed that a Ukrainian strike on Russia’s Druzhba oil pipeline temporarily disrupted operations but did not affect supply security in Germany. Hungary and Slovakia, however, warned that oil deliveries could face a suspension of up to five days, urging the European Commission to secure alternatives.

Key Developments at a Glance

• EU warns allies not to fall for Russia’s “land swap” demands.

• Trump suggests territory deal, Kyiv strongly rejects.

• Russia launches massive drone and missile assault, hitting U.S.-owned factory.

• Hungary offers to host peace talks in Budapest.

• Pipeline attacks raise concerns over European oil supplies.

• Ukraine proposes reforms to give military veterans more roles in government.

⚡ Bottom line: With Russia intensifying attacks and diplomatic tensions growing, Ukraine’s allies are facing renewed pressure on how to balance calls for peace with the risks of territorial compromise.