Security guarantees in exchange for Donbas: Zelenskyy reveals harsh US condition

"The Middle East definitely has an impact on President Trump, and I think ⁠on his next steps. President Trump, unfortunately, in my opinion, still chooses a strategy to put more pressure on the Ukrainian ​side," the Ukrainian president emphasized.

Zelenskyy noted that Washington is ready to finalize these guarantees "at a high level" as soon as Kyiv agrees to withdraw its troops from Donbas.

He also warned that such a step would endanger both Ukraine’s security and, consequently, Europe’s, as it would hand the aggressor country strong defensive positions in the region.

Military analysts point out that for Russia to fully capture Donbas — which includes the so-called "Fortress Belt" of heavily fortified cities held by the Ukrainian Armed Forces — it could take several years and significant manpower.

Donbas issue in negotiations

In 2026, Ukraine, with US mediation, had already held several rounds of talks with Russia. The sides have made progress on the military track, particularly regarding monitoring a ceasefire.

At the same time, Ukraine and Russia have not been able to agree on the ceasefire itself, as the aggressor state is demanding the surrender of the unoccupied parts of Donbas — something Kyiv refuses to accept. Washington, for its part, has proposed creating a free economic zone there.

In response, Zelenskyy rejected any exchange of Donbas territory for other regions. He stressed that Russia understands it may be able to hold border territories for now, but the time will come when Ukrainian forces will push the occupiers out.

In addition, the Ukrainian president emphasized that future negotiations must include a leaders’ level meeting, as only such a format can produce a decision on territorial issues.