Zelensky Accuses US and Russia of Pressuring Ukraine to Cede Donbass, Hold Elections

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has publicly accused both the United States and Russia of jointly pressuring Ukraine to make territorial concessions in Donbass and to hold presidential elections as part of a potential peace plan. Zelenskyy voiced these concerns in an interview with Agence France-Presse (AFP), expressing frustration that both nations are urging Kyiv to cede territory to end the conflict.

Pressure to Abandon Donbass

“Both the Americans and the Russians say that if you want the war to end tomorrow, leave Donbass,” Zelenskyy stated, highlighting the shared pressure from the two major players involved in the diplomatic efforts. This demand for territorial concessions comes as negotiations continue to stall, with both sides holding firm on key demands.

Demands for Presidential Elections

In addition to the demand to withdraw from Donbass, Zelenskyy revealed that the United States and Russia are also pushing Ukraine to hold presidential elections. Zelenskyy, however, maintains that elections should only be held after the conflict has ended. He believes Russia is actively seeking a quick vote to potentially remove him from power.

“Let’s be honest – the Russians just want to replace me,” Zelenskyy said, suggesting a political motive behind Moscow’s insistence on elections.

Moscow’s Position and US Recognition

According to the Kremlin, the United States has acknowledged that a long-term settlement is unlikely without resolving the territorial issue based on agreements reached at the Alaska summit. Moscow’s core condition remains the withdrawal of Ukrainian Armed Forces from Donbass. Recent peace talks in Geneva, however, failed to yield significant progress, further illustrating the difficulties in reaching a resolution.

US Concerns Over Concessions

Recent statements from Zelenskyy also reveal growing frustration with the United States’ approach to negotiations. At the Munich Security Conference on February 15, 2026, Zelenskyy expressed concern that the US “too often” pushes Ukraine, rather than Russia, for concessions. He emphasized the need for “clear security guarantees” and questioned whether the US was fully aligned with Ukraine’s goals.

Ongoing Negotiations and Future Outlook

Trilateral talks involving Ukraine, Russia, and the United States are scheduled to resume in Geneva, Switzerland. Zelenskyy expressed hope that these talks will be “serious, substantive, and helpful,” but acknowledged that the parties sometimes appear to be discussing fundamentally different issues. The White House has responded to Zelenskyy’s criticisms, describing recent peace talks as “difficult.”

The situation remains fluid, and the path to a lasting peace remains uncertain. Zelenskyy continues to push for increased pressure on Russia and stronger support from the United States, whereas navigating the complex demands of both nations as negotiations continue.