**Ukraine Prioritizes Security Guarantees Amid Trump’s Push for Peace Talks**

Ukraine, which has steadfastly refused to give up any land occupied by Russia in exchange for peace, is now placing greater emphasis on securing reliable guarantees as pressure mounts for negotiations. This shift comes as newly elected U.S. President Donald Trump advocates for swift peace discussions, The New York Times reported on Wednesday, November 13.

Given the ongoing struggles faced by Ukrainian forces in the eastern regions, two senior Ukrainian officials have indicated that the nation's priorities in potential peace talks may lean more towards securing strong ceasefire guarantees rather than focusing solely on territorial issues. Roman Kostenko, chairman of the Ukrainian Parliament's Defense and Intelligence Committee, emphasized, "For Ukraine, nothing is more important" than guarantees.

Another high-ranking Ukrainian official, who wished to remain anonymous, acknowledged the significance of territorial integrity but asserted that security guarantees are the primary concern. "The territorial question is extremely important, but it's still the second question," the official remarked.

Ukraine firmly bases its territorial claims on the internationally recognized Declaration of Independence from 1991. Despite Russia seizing about 20% of its land, Kyiv remains resolute in not relinquishing any claims to these regions. Kostenko reiterated Ukraine’s stance, noting that any agreements with Russia would still aim to maintain these claims.

This approach could potentially justify agreements where Russia retains control over portions of Ukrainian territory, reflecting the nation's strategy to prioritize security assurances that ensure a lasting ceasefire. In October, during discussions on a ceasefire, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted that no matter the outcome, occupied territories would not be legally recognized as part of another country.

Amid these developments, sources told Fox News that Trump may soon appoint a special envoy to manage the peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. This individual would be granted significant authority to work towards achieving a peaceful resolution in Ukraine.

The increasing focus on security guarantees underscores the complexities of navigating peace talks while striving to safeguard Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.