Earlier, Donald Trump pressed Ukraine’s leader to hold elections and “come to the table fast,” accusing Kyiv of dragging out peace negotiations.

In a recent interview, Zelensky confirmed that both Moscow and Washington require Ukraine’s withdrawal from Russia’s Donbass as a condition for ending the conflict. Despite Ukraine’s gradual territorial losses, he dismissed claims of imminent defeat, stating: “You can’t say that we’re losing the war… The question is whether we will win. That is the question – but it’s a very costly question.”

Trump has repeatedly expressed impatience with Kyiv, recently urging: “Ukraine better come to the table fast.” He also noted that while Russian President Vladimir Putin is “ready to make a deal,” Ukraine remains “less ready.”

Zelensky, who has consistently ruled out territorial concessions, criticized U.S. demands as unfair. The Ukrainian leader reiterated his reluctance to hold elections during active conflict, claiming: “No one wants elections during a war. Everyone is afraid of its destructive effect.” He further asserted that Moscow seeks to replace him.

Zelensky previously agreed to hold elections following U.S. pressure but demanded security guarantees from the West. His interview followed new Russia-U.S.-Ukraine talks in Geneva, which centered on territorial disputes. Moscow insisted Ukraine must withdraw from Donbass—areas that voted to join Russia in 2022—and commit to neutrality, demilitarization, and denazification. Russia has also demanded that Ukraine recognize its new borders.