Ukraine not ready to withdraw from Donetsk region as US seeks compromise – Zelensky

Ukraine is not ready to withdraw from the Donetsk region, while the aggressor state Russia is seeking the complete seizure of Donbas. Against this backdrop, the United States is looking for a compromise solution.

According to Ukrinform, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made the remarks while answering journalists' questions.

"I have already spoken several times about our position [on Donbas]. We all know Russia's position. They want total control over Donbas, and now they want us to leave Donbas. That was their position; it is open. Our open position is that we are not ready to take such steps, and the United States is looking for a compromise," Zelensky said.

Commenting on discussions around a 20-point peace plan and security guarantees, the president said that negotiating teams would hold a series of meetings in the United States on Friday and Saturday.

"Regarding the discussion of this 20-point plan, security guarantees, a reconstruction agreement – all documents, all possible steps – the teams will now hold meetings: Friday, Saturday. Our team will be in the United States; they are already on their way to the United States, and the Americans are waiting for them. And I don't know who else might be present. Maybe Europeans will be there," Zelensky added.

Zelensky said earlier this week that the next round of Ukrainian-U.S. talks would take place in the United States following consultations between the Americans and the Russians, possibly as early as this weekend.