🚨 Russia Draws a Harsh Line: No Compromise on Donbas
Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared that Ukraine must either withdraw its forces from the Donbas region or Russia will seize full control through military force.
He told India Today that Moscow would accept no territorial concessions in negotiations aimed at ending the war.
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| Putin Issues Ultimatum: “Donbas Will Be Ours — One Way or Another” | Russia–Ukraine Peace Talks at Breaking Point |
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky remains firm that not an inch of Ukrainian land—occupied or not—will be surrendered.
⚠️ US Diplomatic Efforts Under Pressure
Putin’s remarks follow talks in Moscow involving Donald Trump’s peace envoy, Steve Witkoff, who stated that Russia “wants the war to end,” but key obstacles remain.
Witkoff is scheduled to hold additional negotiations with Ukraine in Florida, as the US attempts to revive stalled peace efforts.
📍 Who Controls Donbas Today?
Russia currently controls about 85% of the region, and the latest US proposal reportedly suggested placing remaining Ukrainian-held areas under Russian administration — a move Kyiv rejects entirely.
🛑 Major Disagreements Blocking Progress
Putin confirmed that Moscow disagrees with several components of the US plan, particularly:
- What happens to territories Russia has already captured
- Security guarantees for Ukraine moving forward
A nearly five-hour meeting with US negotiators ended with no compromise, according to Kremlin advisors.
🌍 Europe Warns: “Ukraine Must Not Be Left Alone”
A leaked European call, reported by German media, suggests growing fears that the US may force Kyiv into territorial concessions:
- France’s Macron reportedly warned Ukraine could be “betrayed”
- Germany’s Merz cautioned the US may be “playing games”
- Finland’s Stubb urged Europe to stay united behind Kyiv
(Several leaders declined to confirm the leaked statements publicly.)
🔥 Battlefield Momentum Shifts
Russia claims recent military gains are reinforcing its negotiation stance.
Meanwhile, Ukraine says Moscow is prolonging talks to buy time and strengthen its military position.
💬 What’s Next in the War—Diplomacy or More Bloodshed?
Zelensky insists any peace must include:
✔ Strong, enforceable security guarantees
✔ Pressure on Russia to stop stalling
But with trust collapsing, experts warn the conflict could escalate before any breakthrough.
Inside Putin’s Mind: Why Russia Isn’t Ready for Peace in Ukraine Yet