Post by : Saif Rahman

In a noteworthy escalation, Russia has reiterated its demand for Ukraine to withdraw its forces from the Donbas region, arguing that this is essential for genuine peace. The Kremlin's remarks on Monday come as speculation mounts around another imminent discussion between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized that Ukraine needs to vacate areas of Donbas under its control. Moscow warns that failing to negotiate could lead to further territorial losses for Ukraine in the near future. This narrative has been consistently used by Russia to assert that military realities should dictate the course of any peace negotiations.

Peskov's statements followed a conversation between Putin and Trump on Sunday, shortly before Trump’s meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Miami. The Kremlin has confirmed that another call between Putin and Trump is anticipated soon, although a specific date has yet to be announced.

The Donbas region has been central to the ongoing conflict for several years. According to Russia, it currently exercises control over approximately 90% of Donbas, as well as significant portions of southern Ukraine, including around 75% of the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014, remains a contentious issue, rejected by Ukraine and a majority of global nations.

While Moscow claims Donbas, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson as part of Russia, Ukraine and most of the international community still regard these areas as Ukrainian territory. This fundamental disagreement poses a significant barrier to achieving lasting peace.

In response to inquiries about whether Russia seeks a similar troop withdrawal from Zaporizhzhia and Kherson, Peskov refrained from outlining specifics, stating that such details should not be discussed publicly. He also declined to elaborate on ideas like establishing a free economic zone in Donbas or on the status of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, currently under Russian control.

Peskov indicated that there are no plans for a direct dialogue between Putin and Zelenskiy, suggesting Russia prefers to engage Ukraine through broader diplomatic channels, which include discussions with the United States.

The Kremlin echoed Trump’s earlier sentiments, asserting that Ukraine risks further loss of territory without an agreement. These statements have raised alarms for Ukrainian officials and their allies, who are wary that a push for a swift settlement may jeopardize Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty.

As the conflict rages on, conditions remain fraught with uncertainty. The anticipated Putin–Trump call may provide insights into the forthcoming diplomatic efforts. Meanwhile, Russia's stance remains clear: troop withdrawal from Donbas is paramount for peace, while Ukraine firmly opposes any agreements that entail relinquishing its land.

#Global News