The ongoing conflict in Donbas remains a focal point as both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian dictator Vladimir Putin exhibit no signs of backing down. Zelenskyy states that Ukraine will not concede Donbas, highlighting its strategic importance and the significant number of Ukrainians residing there. Meanwhile, the Kremlin persists in its ambition to capture the entire region, despite skepticism about Russia's capability to do so within its set deadlines. The situation underlines the geopolitical tensions and the pivotal role Donbas plays in international peace talks, with major powers such as the US involved in mediation efforts.
Why is Donbas a major point of contention in peace talks?
Donbas is critical due to its strategic location and its symbolic significance in the conflict. Despite numerous deadlines and proposals, Russia seeks to fully occupy the region, while Ukraine stands firm on its sovereignty over Donbas, with international support. Peace talks are complicated by these opposing stances.
What are the implications of Ukraine withdrawing from Donbas?
If Ukraine were to withdraw from Donbas, it would risk allowing Russian forces to advance further into Ukrainian territory. Moreover, such a move could be perceived as a concession, undermining Ukraine’s sovereign claims and prompting international diplomatic repercussions.
Why has Russia postponed its timeline for capturing Donbas?
Russia has postponed its timeline multiple times likely due to logistical challenges and stronger-than-anticipated Ukrainian resistance. These postponements highlight the difficulties Russia faces in sustaining its military campaign amidst international sanctions and resistance.
How have international stakeholders responded to the Donbas conflict?
The international community, including the US and EU, has largely supported Ukraine’s territorial integrity and rejected Russia's claims. International stakeholders have been involved in mediating peace talks, offering diplomatic and sometimes military support to Ukraine.
What role do security guarantees play in the Donbas issue?
Security guarantees are a pivotal point in negotiations, used as leverage by parties, particularly the US. Proposals often include conditions such as troop withdrawals from Donbas, but are met with caution as they impact regional stability and Ukraine's strategic defense.
What is the significance of deadlines in Russia's strategy for Donbas?
Deadlines are used by Russia both as a strategic pressure tactic and as a means to communicate intentions to both domestic and international audiences. Frequent adjustments signal challenges faced in achieving military objectives and reveal internal and external pressure on Russian leadership.
How has Zelenskyy addressed rumors regarding concessions in Donbas?
Zelenskyy has consistently refuted claims of any intentions to make territorial concessions in Donbas. His administration emphasizes maintaining sovereignty and protecting Ukrainian interests in diplomatic and military engagements on the international stage.
What is the impact of repeated negotiations on the situation in Donbas?
While negotiations have aimed to stabilize the region, continued military and political pressures have led to a protracted conflict without significant resolutions. The complexity of stakeholder interests and Russia's military ambitions further complicate the peace process.
TOP news Donbas
NSDC Secretary Turchynov tested system that jams anti-Ukrainian broadcast in Donbas. PHOTOS Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) of Ukraine Oleksandr Turchynov has tested the first developmental prototype of a complex system for information countermeasures. 914 528 107
Fate of any terrorist state to be equal irrespective of its name, - Turchynov on Malorossiya The statements about the foundation of Malorossiya by the Kremlin puppets, who call themselves the leaders of the Russian-occupied Donbas, are yet another proof of the aggressive plans of Russian President Vladimir Putin and his reluctance to resolve the conflict in the east of Ukraine peacefully. 772 457 322 Previously in trend: Occupied territories - Crimea and Donbas
"We need to apologize. Otherwise, no peace is possible," - Savchenko on dialogue with terrorists Batkivshchyna MP Nadiia Savchenko is confident that Ukraine and terrorists in the country's east should start a dialogue and forgive each other. 593 688 2 868 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine
"Much blood to be shed: Ukraine to be dealt with under Georgian scenario," - Russian journalist Ukraine will be dealt with according to the “Georgian scenario" using the proven concept of the "Kremlin’s political judo." 563 120 1 160 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine War
“I am serviceman of the Russian Federation”: Captured sergeant Aleksandrov of the 3rd brigade of Russian Special Forces interrogated. VIDEO with English subtitles Captured Russian sergeant Alexander Aleksandrov gave evidence about his brigade fighting against Ukraine. 503 540 1 496 Previously in trend: Evidence of Russian aggression in Ukraine Captured Russian special forces operatives
Captured Russian special forces servicemen Captain Aleksandrov and Sergeant Yerofeyev testified on their brigade’s involvement in war against Ukraine. PHOTOS Captured career servicemen of the 3rd Special Forces Brigade of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation Captain Yevgeny Yerofeyev and Sergeant Alexander Aleksandrov provided testimony regarding their unit’s involvement in hostilities against Ukraine. 499 311 1 075 Previously in trend: Evidence of Russian aggression in Ukraine Captured Russian special forces operatives
One Hundred Soldiers – new stunning Ukrainian song about war in Donbas. VIDEO A video for the new song about Ukrainian troops in the Donbas has appeared online. 397 484 1 067
‘LPR’ leader Plotnitsky brought to hospital in severe condition. PHOTOS+VIDEO Photos and video from the scene of the explosion of ‘LPR’ leader Igor Plotnitsky's car in the occupied Luhansk went online. 391 352 908 Previously in trend: Occupied territories - Crimea and Donbas
Russian command urges Ukrainian military to halt offensive in Donbas and call truce "DPR" militants offered the Ukrainian military to cease fire at midnight, Feb 9. According to "DPR's operations command" representative Eduard Basurin, not a single shot has been fired since 3 a.m. 361 655 558 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine
Russia disowned its captive special forces operatives: "They are members of militia" According to the pro-Russian militants from "LPR", Russian special forces operatives Yevgeny Yerofeyev and Alexander Aleksandrov detained in Ukraine, are "soldiers of the people’s militia". 353 567 1 829 Previously in trend: Captured Russian special forces operatives
Militant Khodakovsky confirms death of ''Vostok'' battalion commander near Avdiivka. PHOTO The leader of the "Vostok" terrorist battalion Aleksandr Khodakovskiy confirmed the elimination of the militant commander during today's battle at Avdiivka in the Donetsk region. 346 089 419 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine
Russian Defense Ministry demands Ukraine to release captive "former" Russian servicemen The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation urged Kyiv "to stop tortures and release former Russian servicemen" who were detained by the Security Service of Ukraine. 344 852 1 576 Previously in trend: Captured Russian special forces operatives
Savchenko insists on direct contact with "DPR", "LPR": "We need to talk beyond Minsk process" Batkivshchyna MP Nadiia Savchenko calls for direct talks with the leaders of the so-called "LPR" and "DPR", bypassing the Minsk agreements. 341 070 2 283 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine
Ukraine's Security Service shows killed career soldiers of Russia: "War in Donbas in not Syrian safari - they would die!". PHOTOS The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) informs of liquidation of Russian career soldiers in combat activities in the Donbas. 337 529 486 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine Evidence of Russian aggression in Ukraine
"Two 200s, one 300": Sniper of Ukrainian Volunteer Army Bilozerska prevented terrorist provocations in ATO area. VIDEO A female sniper of the Ukrainian Volunteer Army Olena Bilozerska killed two terrorists in the Donbas as they attempted to launch provocations on Independence Day of Ukraine, Aug. 24. 319 930 488
Russian special forces operatives Y. Yerofeyev and A. Aleksandrov taken prisoners in the battle near Shchastia. PHOTOS Two Russian Federation special forces soldiers from Togliatti were captured yesterday, during fierce fighting with the Russian subversive reconnaissance group that penetrated into the vicinity of the city of Shchastia. 319 846 1 048 Previously in trend: Evidence of Russian aggression in Ukraine Captured Russian special forces operatives
"The job was done to precision of second. He was blotted out under 'curators' order," - Donbas militants comment on murder of rebel leader 'Motorola' A number of Russian activists hostile towards Ukraine and supportive of separatists and militants of Donbas have said they are certain that Arsen 'Motorola' Pavlov was killed by his foes from the "Donetsk People's Republic," not by Ukrainian saboteurs. 305 983 232 Previously in trend: Arsen Pavlov murder
Ex-leader of "LPR" terrorists Bolotov dies unexpectedly Former leader of the "Luhansk People's Republic" has died at the age of 47, the cause of death being established. 289 791 754
Ukraine to get access to its border with Russia after elections in Donbas - Presidential Administration Ukraine will gain access to the uncontrolled section of its border with Russia on the second day after the local elections in the occupied part of the Donbas. 289 284 879 Previously in trend: Occupied territories - Crimea and Donbas
Russian special forces urgently leaving Brianka in Luhansk region - General Staff Russian soldiers of the 3rd GRU special purpose brigade of the Russian armed forces are urgently leaving the town of Brianka in the Luhansk region. 282 111 664 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine Captured Russian special forces operatives
Poroshenko proposes to introduce peacekeepers in Eastern Ukraine President Petro Poroshenko at the NSDCE meeting proposed to introduce EU peacekeepers in the Donbas. 273 685 1 403 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine
Did you send forces to Ukraine because you were invited there? — Erdogan to Putin Erdogan reminded the Kremlin that Russian troops were not invited in Georgia and Ukraine, while they were ‘invited’ to Syria by the illegitimate government. 270 989 831 Previously in trend: War in Syria Russian aggression against Ukraine
"Savchenko’s activity gives us chance to win and a hope that Ukrainian army will leave Donbas," - "DPR" militants’ leader Zakharchenko "DPR" militants’ chieftain Alexander Zakharchenko deems Ukrainian lawmaker Nadiia Savchenko a politician of the new generation that gives "DPR" a chance to win. 270 640 797 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine War
Ukraine should abandon idea of joining NATO and EU, hold local elections in occupied Donbas, - Pinchuk Ukraine should take the situation in the Donbas as is and hold local elections. 269 058 1 367
Makarevich Showed Russians the "Punishers" to Whom He Sang in Sviatohorsk. PHOTO Soviet and Russian rock musician and leader of the Russia's oldest rock band Mashina Vremeni (Time Machine) Andrey Makarevich posted photos in social network, showing the "punishers" to whom he sang in Sviatohorsk. 266 734 463
Putin signed decree on recognition of 'DPR' and 'LPR' passports by Russia President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on Saturday that declared documents issued to permanent residents of the so-called DPR and LPR republics valid in Russia. 265 717 719 Previously in trend: Occupied territories - Crimea and Donbas
Militants' mortar detachment destroyed by direct hit of Ukrainian artillery. PHOTOS A Russian mercenary told about destruction of militants' mortar detachment near Starohnativka. Please beware of disturbing images. 263 521 15 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine
“… and then, f*ck it, our battalion commander will see how we thr#w,” – phone video by Russian commando Aleksandrov. VIDEO (full version) Full version of the video from Donbas-captured Russian commando Aleksandrov’s phone was posted online. Beware of strong language (in Russian)! 262 808 439 Previously in trend: Evidence of Russian aggression in Ukraine Captured Russian special forces operatives
Six Ukrainian military killed in Svitlodarsk salient, 20 wounded, - civil volunteer Mysiahin Ukrainian Army incurred significant losses in Svitlodarsk salient. 262 489 434 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine Svitlodarsk fighting
'DPR' and 'LPR' want autonomy within the Ukrainian state Representatives of the self-proclaimed 'Donetsk People's Republic' and 'Luhansk People's Republic' announced their consent for autonomy within the Ukrainian state, provided that all the parties abide by agreements reached in Minsk on Feb. 12. 261 217 2 050 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine
"Kremlin is eliminating everyone. You will celebrate my death soon," - terrorist Girkin The Russians military killed or excluded all independent players from the city of Donetsk. That’s why Girkin isn't rule out the possibility of his assassination. 259 959 470 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine
Group of Ukrainian military gets out of contact while on combat mission, - press officer Zavtonov A group of Ukrainian scouts failed to return from a mission in the anti-terrorist operation (ATO) area in the Luhansk region on Feb. 11. 258 824 241
"Motorola's" wife used stolen blank to forge Ukrainian passport, - Donetsk Police Chief Abroskin. PHOTOS Citizen of Ukraine Olena Pavlova, the widow of recently killed terrorist chieftain Motorola, has forged her passport using a blank stolen in Sloviansk in 2014. 254 406 277 Previously in trend: Arsen Pavlov murder
Parliament Passes a Law on Special Order of Government in Some Districts of Donbas and Amnesty for Members of Armed Groups The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine has passed a bill of President Poroshenko on the special status of Donbas. 253 627 1 823
UN has reliable information on movement of Russian troops and heavy weaponry across Ukrainian border U.N. monitors said active fighting has decreased, but warn that the situation could develop into a protracted conflict or escalate again. Both scenarios would have dire consequences for the civilian population and be harmful to human rights for many years. 253 345 288 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine Occupied territories - Crimea and Donbas
Putin promises not to give residents of Donbas up to Ukrainian nationalists Russia's President Vladimir Putin said this in an interview for the World Order film by Vladimir Solovyev, which Russia 1 TV channel broadcast in its Vesti Nedeli program on Sunday. 249 867 1 264 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine War
Elections in Donbas will take place "after Russians stop killing Ukrainians," - Poroshenko responds to Russian reporter Elections in the Donbas will take place only after Russian occupation troops are withdrawn from the Ukrainian territory. 249 402 625
Captive terrorist 'Fil' exposed as well-known sniper, slayer of Ukrainian military. VIDEO+PHOTOS The detained militant, call sign 'Fil,' turned out to be a sniper involved in killing Ukrainian soldiers in the Donbas. 248 376 282 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine
Russian actor Pashinin joins 8th battalion of Ukrainian Volunteer Army. PHOTOS Ukrainian-born actor Anatolii Pashinin, who lived and worked in Moscow, came to his motherland to fight against separatists and Russian mercenaries. 246 792 338
Old evil and old orders returned to army, - civil volunteer Mysiahin. PHOTO Civil volunteers continue assisting Ukrainian fighters in the anti-terrorist operation (ATO) area, who have more and more requests as the weather is getting colder. The soldiers are asking for construction materials to build trenches and winterize them. Volunteers note the situation with medical treatment, bureaucracy, and vehicle delivery is getting worse at the front line. They say "the army returned back to 2014." 240 944 312 Previously in trend: Volunteers for the Army
Blockade in Donbas: titushky arrive in Bakhmut under police protection, - MP Parasiuk. VIDEO As soon as MPs and members of the blockade of the temporarily occupied territories left Bakhmut, mercenary thugs, also known as titushky, emerged accompanied by the police. 240 136 945 Previously in trend: Blockade of "DPR/LPR"
"I fear that a bloody spring is coming again to Ukraine,” - McCain on Russian troops withdrawal from Syria U.S. Senator John McCain believes that Russia will turn its resource and attention elsewhere after withdrawal of its forces from Syria. In turn, this may lead to resumption of active hostilities in eastern Ukraine. 238 927 460 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine
New 'Motorola's elimination scene footage released online. VIDEO The video shows the bodies of Arsen "Motorola" Pavlov and his bodyguard being carried out of the building. 238 924 259 Previously in trend: Arsen Pavlov murder
Names of eight captive militants, aged between 21 and 49, established, - ATO speaker. LIST Over the day yesterday, nine pro-Russian militants were killed, eight received wounds. They were members of four different illegal armed groups. 235 031 218
"I went to occupied territory and met with my recent captors," - Savchenko Ukrainian MP Nadiia Savchenko, member of the Ukrainian delegation to PACE, said at the assembly session that she had recently visited the occupied territory of the Donbas and met with people who had held her captive two years ago. 234 767 851
Intercepted talks between Donbas terrorists confirm captured Russian Starkov being RF Army officer. AUDIO Ukraine's Security Service published intercepted talks between Donbas militants, who discuss the capture of Russian Army officer Vladimir Starkov by the Ukrainian border guards. Beware of strong language (in Russian)! 233 021 361 Previously in trend: Russian aggression against Ukraine Evidence of Russian aggression in Ukraine
"DPR" and "LPR" terrorists announce Donbas and Crimea integral part of Ukraine The self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics proposed amendments to the Constitution where they have called the Republic of Crimea the part of Ukraine. 232 092 836 Previously in trend: Occupied territories - Crimea and Donbas
‘Green men’ cordon off heart of occupied Luhansk, ignore ‘LPR’ leader Plotnitsky’s orders. VIDEO Members of Berkut riot police and unidentified armed persons in uniforms have blocked the street in the downtown area of occupied Luhansk and refuse to fulfill the orders of Igor Plotnitsky, the leader of the "Luhansk People’s Republic” terrorist organization better known as the “LPR”. 229 238 362
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