Russia Stresses Ukraine Must Withdraw from Donbas for Peace Talks

Moscow has intensified its call for Ukraine to pull back its troops from the Donbas region, asserting that this withdrawal is crucial for achieving peace. This statement from the Kremlin on Monday comes as anticipation builds for a renewed dialogue between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized that Ukraine should remove its military presence in the areas of Donbas still under its control. According to Russian officials, a lack of agreement could lead to Ukraine losing additional territories in the future. Russia frequently reiterates that the current military situation should inform any peace negotiations.

Peskov's statements follow a recent conversation between Putin and Trump, which took place on Sunday, just prior to Trump's meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Miami. The Kremlin has indicated that another call between Putin and Trump is on the horizon, although no specific date has been mentioned.

The Donbas region has been embroiled in conflict for several years, with Russia claiming control over approximately 90% of it, alongside significant portions of southern Ukraine, including major areas of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson. Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 remains unrecognized by Ukraine and most of the global community.

While Moscow claims Donbas, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson as Russian land, Ukraine and a majority of international governments still regard these areas as part of Ukraine. This disagreement is a central impediment to peace discussions.

When pressed on whether Russia expects Ukraine to also pull troops from Zaporizhzhia and Kherson, Peskov refrained from providing specifics, noting it was inappropriate to disclose detailed terms publicly. He also declined to comment on proposals for establishing Donbas as a free economic zone or on the future of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which remains under Russian control.

Peskov indicated that there are no current plans for a direct conversation between Putin and Zelenskiy, hinting that Russia prefers to engage with Ukraine through wider diplomatic channels, including interactions with the United States.

The Kremlin echoed Trump's earlier comments, suggesting Ukraine could face further territorial losses if it does not agree to a resolution. These statements have raised alarms among Ukrainian officials and their allies, who are concerned that pressure for a swift agreement may jeopardize Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty.

As the conflict shows no signs of abating, the environment remains fraught with uncertainty. The anticipated Trump-Putin call may provide insights into future diplomatic developments. Russia's firm stance has made it clear: troop withdrawal from Donbas is a fundamental requirement for peace, while Ukraine firmly opposes any compromise that sacrifices its land.