The principle of territorial sovereignty remains central to European positions on acceptable peace terms. Leaders insist that Ukraine alone possesses legitimate authority to consent to any territorial changes that might emerge from negotiations.
This principle aims to prevent scenarios where external parties negotiate territorial compromises without genuine Ukrainian consent. European officials argue that any such imposed territorial changes would violate fundamental principles of international law.
The emphasis on Ukrainian consent challenges negotiating approaches that might pressure Kyiv to accept territorial concessions. European leaders worry that Ukrainian negotiators might reluctantly agree to unfavorable terms under intense pressure from mediators or military realities.
French President Emmanuel Macron’s explicit statement that only Ukraine can decide about its territories establishes a clear European red line. This position supports Ukrainian negotiating leverage by ensuring that mediators cannot simply present fait accompli territorial arrangements.
However, the consent principle raises questions about what constitutes genuine consent versus agreement under duress. If Ukraine accepts territorial concessions while facing military defeat or withdrawal of Western support, does this represent legitimate consent?