Zelensky said that he would not agree to withdraw forces from Donbass in order to conclude a peace agreement.
In a conversation with journalists, Zelensky stated that he is not ready to accept the agreement, which stipulates the withdrawal of Ukrainian soldiers from the Donbass, because he does not trust Russian President Vladimir Putin.
According to Zelensky, the American pressure on Ukraine on the territorial issue is the easiest way to reach an agreement with the Russian side.
"They put pressure on us to leave Donbass, and then the deal will be completed. We are not ready for such a deal because we are not ready to trust Putin," he said.
Zelensky stressed the need to discuss specific security guarantees, which should take into account all related issues.
"We need to hear and receive specific, very clear security guarantees on all these issues," he said.
Zelensky also expressed hope that the United States would find a different approach to negotiations.
"Of course, it's much easier to put pressure on us. Certainly. But I hope that the United States will find another way, and we look forward to it together with Europe," he added.