Russia’s Ultimatum on Donbas: A Stark Warning of Diplomatic Deadlock

In a recent stark declaration, the Kremlin made clear that an unconditional withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from the Donbas region is an essential prerequisite to any resolution of the ongoing conflict. This demand comes ahead of a rare trilateral meeting between Russia, Ukraine, and the United States in Abu Dhabi, underscoring just how far apart the parties remain despite high-profile diplomatic efforts. Is Moscow’s Demand a Path to Peace or a Mask for Territorial Ambitions? Dmitri Peskov, spokesman for President Vladimir Putin, emphasized that Russian forces expect the Ukrainian military to vacate all positions in Donbas. To Washington and Kiev’s...