Zelensky ties U.S. security guarantees to Donbas withdrawal amid Rubio clash

Zelensky said, as he understands it, U.S. security guarantees for Kyiv would be provided only after Ukraine withdraws from Donbas, effectively linking guarantees to the war’s end. Rubio countered by calling that a lie. Zelensky clarified that the question is when guarantees are given, not when they come into force, and reaffirmed Kyiv’s wish for pre‑ceasefire guarantees while acknowledging the U.S. stance that guarantees would come after hostilities end. The exchange underscored stalled peace talks and divergent positions: Russia demands Donbas withdrawal, the U.S. seeks an end to the war before guarantees, and Kyiv seeks guarantees before a ceasefire.