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

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.