22:00 09-04-2026

Europe Fears US Pressure on Ukraine Over Donbass

European officials warn the US may pressure Ukraine on Donbass ahead of elections, as Dmitry Kuleba admits limits to restoring 1991 borders.

Concerns are mounting across Europe over the possibility that the United States could step up pressure on Ukraine ahead of the upcoming midterm elections to Congress. According to a report by The Guardian, citing two European officials, there is growing unease that Washington may push Kyiv to reconsider its claims over Donbass.

The officials suggest that Donald Trump, seeking a geopolitical win before the elections, could intensify efforts to persuade Ukraine to scale back its position on the region.

At the same time, former Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmitry Kuleba has acknowledged that Ukraine lacks the resources needed to restore its 1991 borders. Speaking to Ukrainian media, he indicated that such goals remain aspirational and are not supported by current capabilities or circumstances.

Kuleba also pointed to the broader geopolitical context, noting that the escalation of conflict in the Middle East has complicated Kyiv’s position. As a result, Ukraine has seen a reduction in Western military supplies, including ammunition for Patriot air defense systems.

In his assessment, under present conditions, the most realistic favorable outcome for Ukraine would be an end to hostilities while maintaining its independence.