The Importance of Donbas in the Negotiations Between Ukraine and Russia

• Donbas has become a key topic in the negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.
• Local residents of Zaporizhzhia have expressed concern about a possible exchange of territories.
• Zelensky rejected the proposal for a withdrawal from part of Donbas.

Donbas, an industrial region in eastern Ukraine, has become a central theme in the negotiations between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump. During the meeting, which took place on September 15, 2025, in Almaty, the issue of a possible "exchange of territories" between Ukraine and Russia was discussed.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Russia is eager to seize the remnants of the Donbas territories, particularly Donetsk, which could allow it to gain control over most of the region. According to him, the loss of Donbas would give Russia a strategic advantage for future attacks on Ukraine.

Donbas, which includes Donetsk and Luhansk regions, has been partially occupied by Russia since 2014, when the war began. Currently, approximately 88% of Donbas is under Russian control, and the region's economy depends on the coal industry.

In Zaporizhzhia, a city located near the front line, local residents express concern about a possible "exchange" of territories. Many people who have survived the prolonged conflict are ready to accept any agreement that would stop the attacks, but others fear the consequences of further Russian occupation.

Zelensky rejected the proposal for a withdrawal from the territories, emphasizing that such decisions ignore human lives. He stated that Donbas is important for Ukraine, and its loss could lead to serious consequences for the country.

Tags: Ukraine/Russia/Politics