Zelensky Outlines Conditions for Withdrawal of Ukrainian Forces from Donbas

The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, has stated to reporters that Ukrainian armed forces will only withdraw from Donbas if Russia undertakes similar actions. He emphasized that any withdrawal of forces can only happen under conditions of equality.

“If we retreat 5 kilometers, then they retreat 5 kilometers. If we retreat 10 kilometers, they retreat 10 kilometers as well. And then there is a demilitarized zone,” said Zelensky.

The Ukrainian leader referred to a scenario where the demarcation line follows where the armies are actually stationed at the end of hostilities as a “fair option.”

“We will stand and live in the part of Donbas controlled by Ukrainian authorities. These are fundamental issues. Kyiv has made it clear to its American partners that Ukraine cannot withdraw from its territories. I do not see the ability or desire to do so. And I see that the Ukrainian people also do not have it,” Zelensky stated.

He also noted that Ukraine has conveyed its vision for a peaceful resolution to the United States and is awaiting a response from the Russian side.

“The most difficult issues have been and remain the territory of Ukraine. Next is the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. The third issue is funding for reconstruction. And there are several other technical issues regarding security guarantees and monitoring formats,” Zelensky added.