The territorial issue of Donbas is Russia’s objective in this war of survival and attrition, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy believes. He said this at a briefing in Kyiv after talks with American representatives.
Donbas is Ukraine’s outpost on many issues. Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Ukraine has strengthened its position in the east, and that after the elections Russia will carry out mobilisation exclusively for this direction.
“A lot of geopolitical issues are being decided there, truly. Our lads are doing a great job in giving diplomacy a chance. Without a strong Ukrainian position on the battlefield, there will be only ultimatums. But as it is, diplomacy is possible today,” he said.
The President believes that over the past 10–12 months Ukraine has grown stronger, but winter is a serious challenge. That is when talks continue on funding, arms production, and the military.
- Following a meeting with US Special Representative Steve Witkoff and the American leader’s adviser Jared Kushner, Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that the territorial issue remains relevant.
- During previous rounds of talks, Russia demanded the withdrawal of the Ukrainian army from the entire territory of Donbas. Ukraine rejects the possibility of giving up its territory and retreating from it.