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Moscow's Ultimatum: Surrender Donbas for Peace – Potential Putin-Trump Communication

Published December 29, 2025, 13:13
Moscow's Ultimatum: Surrender Donbas for Peace – Potential Putin-Trump Communication

Russia has set the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from the parts of Donbas still under Kyiv's control as a precondition for achieving peace, further hardening its negotiating stance. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops is a key requirement for opening the way for a peaceful settlement. At the same time, a telephone conversation is expected between Russian President Vladimir Putin and former US President Donald Trump, following an initial conversation on Sunday ahead of the Trump-Zelensky meeting. Putin and Trump discussed the plan for ending the war, while Zelenskyy requested security guarantees from Trump for Ukraine for a period of 30 to 50 years, considering the initial proposals of 15 years insufficient. Trump appeared willing to consider the request, stating that there are still some issues to be resolved. According to Russian estimates, Russia currently controls approximately one-fifth of Ukraine, including Crimea and significant parts of Donbas, as well as areas in the Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, Kharkiv, Sumy, Mykolaiv and Dnipropetrovsk regions. The situation on the ground remains fluid, with fighting continuing on various fronts. The demand for long-term security guarantees by Zelenskyy underscores Ukraine's desire to avoid future attacks and ensure its national sovereignty. Trump's potential mediation, although uncertain, could play a significant role in finding a peaceful solution. However, Russia appears to remain firm in its demand for the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from Donbas.