Kremlin Asserts Peace in Donbas Dependent on Ukrainian Troop Withdrawal

The Kremlin has reiterated its stance that peace in the Donbas region can only be achieved if Ukraine withdraws its forces from the territories it still controls. This position was reaffirmed by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, who emphasized that failure to reach a deal would result in Kyiv losing further territory to Russian control.

The call for a withdrawal comes amid increased diplomatic activity, including a recent phone call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Another conversation between the two leaders is expected soon, particularly ahead of Trump’s planned meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. However, Peskov declined to confirm whether a direct conversation between Putin and Zelenskiy was on the agenda.

Russian officials continue to outline the terms for a potential peace deal. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov stressed that Kyiv must make a “bold decision” in the Donbas, aligning with earlier remarks by Trump that were paraphrased by Peskov. According to Ushakov, a temporary ceasefire proposed by European and Ukrainian actors is viewed by Moscow and Washington as counterproductive and likely to extend the conflict. Instead, the Kremlin insists that any resolution must involve Kyiv ceding control of the remaining 10% of Donbas still under Ukrainian forces.

Russian control over the region remains substantial. According to its own estimates, Moscow holds approximately 90% of Donbas, as well as 75% of the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. The Kremlin also controls portions of the Kharkiv, Sumy, Mykolaiv, and Dnipropetrovsk regions. Despite these territorial gains, Russia has not formally annexed all of them, maintaining a distinction between de facto control and official status.

When questioned about broader implications for other regions like Zaporizhzhia and Kherson, Peskov declined to provide specifics. He also refrained from commenting on suggestions of a “free economic zone” in Donbas or the future of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, which is currently under Russian control.

The Ukrainian position remains firm on the issue of territorial concessions. While Zelenskiy has suggested openness to dialogue, including the possibility of a demilitarized Donbas, any withdrawal of Ukrainian troops is contingent upon reciprocal steps by Russia. Zelenskiy has also indicated willingness to consider economic alternatives for the region, provided that any such agreements are consistent with the will of the Ukrainian people, as determined through a national referendum.

With multiple stakeholders pushing for a resolution, the path to peace remains complex. The Kremlin’s insistence on full Ukrainian compliance in the Donbas continues to shape the diplomatic landscape, with Trump reportedly serving as a conduit for Russian demands. As the situation evolves, the next round of high-level talks will be closely watched for any sign of progress.