News|Russia-Ukraine warPutin says Russia ready to take Ukraine’s eastern Donbas region ‘by force’Comments to Indian media seem to contradict Trump report that negotiators got the impression he wanted to ‘make a deal’.
Recent discussions between Russian and United States representatives regarding the conflict in Ukraine have been described as “very useful” by Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, Putin reiterated demands and territorial objectives that remain…
Recent discussions between Russian and United States representatives regarding the conflict in Ukraine have been described as “very useful” by Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, Putin reiterated demands and territorial objectives that remain obstacles to a resolution.
Prior to his visit to New Delhi on Thu, Dec 4, 2025, Putin confirmed plans to forcibly take control of Ukraine’s eastern Donbas region, as no consensus was reached during talks with US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
Putin stated that the options are to liberate these territories by force or for Ukrainian forces to withdraw. The conflict has persisted since February 2022 following an initial eight years of fighting in Donbas between Russian-backed separatists and Ukrainian troops.
Despite previous US assertions of Putin’s willingness to end the conflict, his remarks indicate a continued commitment to military objectives in the region. Reports suggest that US envoys will meet a top Ukrainian negotiator in Florida on Thu, Dec 4, 2025, following initial talks in Moscow.
However, Putin reiterated demands and territorial objectives that remain obstacles to a resolution.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reiterated that he lacks the authority to cede Ukrainian territory, a stance supported by the Ukrainian constitution. The ongoing conflict and domestic challenges, such as corruption scandals, continue to impact his administration.
In discussions over a potential peace agreement, Russia has insisted on control over the Donbas region. A 28-point plan proposed by former US President Donald Trump initially included concessions to Russia, such as ceding the entire Donbas and limiting Ukraine’s military capabilities. However, Ukrainian negotiators have pushed for revisions.
It remains unclear which version of the plan was discussed in recent talks. According to reports, the 28-point plan is still under consideration, based on prior agreements from a Russia-US summit in Alaska in August.
Russian military actions continue in Ukraine, with recent missile strikes on civilian areas, including Kryvyi Rih and Odesa, resulting in casualties and infrastructure damage. Allegations of Ukrainian disruptions to peace talks have been made by Russian officials.
Current estimates indicate that Russia controls 19.2 percent of Ukraine, including Crimea and significant portions of several regions. Ukrainian forces maintain control over parts of Donetsk, including the northern area of Pokrovsk.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.