Original Source
Zelensky: US Links Security Guarantees to Ukraine Ceding Donbas
Conditional Security Guarantees for Donbas Withdrawal
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that the United States is prepared to finalize security guarantees at a high level, but only once Ukraine is ready to withdraw from the Donbas region. Speaking in Kyiv on March 25, 2026, Zelensky indicated that this condition is a prerequisite for the US to provide the security assurances Ukraine is seeking.
Russia's Influence and US Priorities
Zelensky suggested that the Russian side is actively shaping the atmosphere of its dialogue with the Americans around the idea that Ukraine should withdraw from Donbas. He believes that by pushing this narrative, Russia aims to bring an end to the ongoing conflict. The president also shared that the American side has conveyed that its primary focus is on Iran, implying that Ukraine is not their top priority. While acknowledging the importance of the situation in Ukraine and the war with Russia, Zelensky explained that the US's focus on the Middle East stems from its military presence in Iran.
*Source: YouTube: Reuters (2026-03-26)*
