Russia Gives Ukraine ‘2 Months’ to Quit Donbas or Face Harsher Terms, Zelensky Says

President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Tuesday, March 31, that Russia has given Ukraine what he described as a two-month ultimatum to withdraw from Donbas or face harsher peace terms.

Speaking to journalists, Zelensky said Moscow conveyed to the United States that it expects to capture eastern Ukraine within that timeframe and is demanding Kyiv pull out in advance.

“They told the American side they would take the east of our country in two months… and that Ukraine has two months to withdraw,” Zelensky said.

He dismissed the proposal as unrealistic and questioned why such demands continue to be taken seriously.

“I am surprised how anyone can believe this… after so many years, they continue pushing this narrative,” he said.

Zelensky added that Russia’s own statements contradict its claims that its goals are limited to Donbas.

“If their goal is only Donbas, why do they say they will go further and impose other conditions?” he said.

Zelensky also rejected Russia’s claim that it could capture the region within two months.

“They will never be able to take anything in two months,” he said.

He suggested that Moscow’s broader objectives extend beyond Donbas, despite framing its demands around the region.

Zelensky’s comments come amid stalled US-led peace talks with Russia, as Washington increasingly shifts attention to its war with Iran. He has previously rejected a US proposal that, according to him, would involve Ukraine giving up control over parts of Donbas in exchange for security guarantees.

On Monday, Zelensky said Ukraine remains open to a ceasefire over Easter, including a potential energy truce, though he stressed that any temporary arrangements must not compromise the country’s “dignity and sovereignty.”

He added that short-term pauses of “two to three days” would not allow Russia to gain a meaningful advantage.