Trump is still choosing a strategy of increasing pressure specifically on Ukraine
The U.S. has set a condition under which Ukraine will have to withdraw its troops from Donbas to receive security guarantees.
This was stated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, as reported by RBC-Ukraine citing Reuters.
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“The Middle East certainly influences President Trump (U.S. President Donald Trump – ed.), and I think it will affect his further steps. Unfortunately, in my opinion, President Trump is still choosing a strategy of increasing pressure on the Ukrainian side,” emphasized the Ukrainian president.
Zelensky noted that Washington is ready to finalize these guarantees “at a high level” as soon as Kyiv is prepared to withdraw its troops from Donbas.
He also warned that this step would jeopardize the security of both Ukraine and, consequently, Europe, as it would lead to the transfer of strong defensive positions in the region to the aggressor country.
Military analysts note that for a complete capture of Donbas, which includes the so-called “fortress belt” of cities significantly fortified by the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Russia may need several years and a large number of personnel.
The issue of Donbas in negotiations
Recall that in 2026, Ukraine, with the mediation of the U.S., already held several rounds of negotiations with Russia. The parties made progress on the military track, specifically regarding the control of the ceasefire.
At the same time, Ukraine and Russia have not been able to reach an agreement on the ceasefire itself, as the aggressor country wants the surrender of the unoccupied Donbas, which Kyiv does not agree to. Washington is generally proposing to create a “free economic zone” there.
In response, Zelensky rejected any exchange of Donbas territory for other regions. He noted that Russia understands it will be able to hold the border territories, and there will come a time when the Armed Forces of Ukraine will drive the occupiers out of there.
Furthermore, the President of Ukraine emphasized that during future negotiations, it is necessary to agree on a meeting at the leaders’ level, as it is in this format that a solution to the territorial issue can be reached.
