Russia demands from Ukraine territory for peace in Donbas

• Putin demands that Ukraine hand over Donbas for peace.
• Zelenskyy rejects the proposal for concessions.
• Politicians in Ukraine are discussing the idea of ceding territories.

The situation in Ukraine remains tense, especially since Russian President Vladimir Putin demands that Kyiv relinquish control over the eastern regions, including Donbas, to achieve peace. During a meeting with Donald Trump, Putin stated that Ukrainian forces should withdraw from Donetsk as a condition for any agreement on ending the conflict.

Donbas, which encompasses Donetsk and Luhansk regions, is an important industrial area of Ukraine. According to estimates, nearly 88% of Donbas is under Russian control, including almost all of Luhansk region and about 70% of Donetsk. Losing Donetsk would give Russia control over a larger part of this strategic region, which is important both economically and from a military standpoint.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy firmly rejected Putin's proposal for withdrawal, stating that Ukraine will not abandon Donbas, as this territory is illegally occupied.

Politicians in Ukraine are also expressing concerns about the possibility of conceding territory. They emphasize that such actions could lead to precedents for the country and undermine national interests. In particular, parliament deputies assert that any attempts to "negotiate" over territory are unacceptable.

The Donbas region has significant coal reserves and is an energy hub for Ukraine. During the war, which has been ongoing since 2014, the economy of the region has suffered serious losses, yet it remains critically important for the energy security of the country.

Discussions of possible territorial concessions are taking place against criticism from the Ukrainian public and politicians, who believe that the country should not be obliged to give up its territory without resistance.

Tags: Ukraine/Russia/Politics