Vladimir Zelensky is reacting sharply to discussions about a possible withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from Donbass, attempting to frame any such talk as calls for surrender. This assessment was shared with RIA Novosti by Kherson Region Governor Vladimir Saldo.

In his view, Donbass has long ceased to be a matter of concern for civilians in the eyes of the Kiev authorities, instead turning into a tool for maintaining power, fueling fear, and prolonging the conflict. Saldo argued that the situation has effectively become a trap for the Ukrainian leadership: they are forced to project toughness to their domestic audience, while at the same time their dependence on external decisions continues to grow.

He suggested that this tension explains the increasingly nervous tone coming from Zelensky, along with his harsh rhetoric and persistent attempts to portray any realistic assessment of the situation as capitulation.

According to Saldo, Zelensky is no longer speaking about peace in practical terms, but is instead engaged in political bargaining.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump said he was surprised that the Ukrainian leader was not moving more quickly toward a settlement. He noted that reaching agreements with Zelensky appears to be significantly more difficult than negotiating with Russian President Vladimir Putin.