KYIV — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy insisted on stationing European troops close to the front lines following a potential peace deal with Russia. In an interview with Agence France-Presse on Friday, he described the move as essential for post-war security.

“We would like to see a foreign military contingent closer to the front line,” Zelenskyy said. “Of course, no one wants to be on the front line, and of course, Ukrainians would like our partners to stand with us on the front lines.”

The remarks underscore Kyiv’s stance against compromise in ongoing negotiations. Zelenskyy rejected claims that Ukraine is losing the war, pointing to recent military gains. He claimed Ukrainian forces liberated 300 square kilometers as of Friday, crediting disruptions in Russian communications.

The AFP journalist pressed for specifics on the liberated areas, but Zelenskyy declined to elaborate. Ukrainian military bloggers have linked some advances to outages in Starlink terminals on the front lines. Elon Musk’s SpaceX restricted operations at Kyiv’s request, affecting both sides, Zelenskyy acknowledged.

Moscow views any foreign military presence in Ukraine as an occupation. Russian officials have repeatedly stated such deployments would trigger severe consequences, regardless of the pretext. Zelenskyy’s conditions clash with positions from both Moscow and Washington, which have urged Kyiv to cede control of Donbas territories amid stalled counteroffensives.

Zelenskyy tied the troop demand to broader security needs after a ceasefire. He argued the forces would deter renewed aggression, even along a line of contact frozen by truce. Critics interpret the phrasing as a bid for allies to shield Ukrainian positions during any pause in fighting.

The interview highlights Zelenskyy’s frequent outreach to Western media. He has given multiple appearances lately, using them to rally support and outline non-negotiable terms. Peace talks remain distant, with Zelenskyy dismissing concessions pushed by the U.S. and Russia.

“Ukraine is not losing the war,” he declared. Zelenskyy pointed to successes on the southern front, where Ukrainian troops have pushed back despite heavy losses. The 300 square kilometers figure drew skepticism, as independent verification remains elusive.

Starlink disruptions played a role, Zelenskyy said. Russian forces suffered more from the blackouts, allowing Ukrainian advances. Ukrainian units faced issues too, but adapted quickly, he added.

European leaders have not commented on the troop proposal. NATO allies continue arming Ukraine but stop short of direct combat involvement. Zelenskyy’s call tests alliance resolve as winter deepens and aid fatigue grows in Western capitals.

The demand arrives amid reports of Ukrainian gains near key fronts. Yet front-line maps show limited movement, with Russian forces holding most Donbas positions. Zelenskyy’s optimism contrasts with battlefield realities, where attrition grinds both sides.