The Kremlin has called on Ukraine to make a prompt decision regarding the withdrawal of its military forces from the Donbas region. This statement comes amid escalating tensions and new demands from Russia concerning the ongoing conflict.
In a recent press briefing, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “President Zelensky must make a decision today to withdraw Ukrainian troops beyond the administrative borders of Donbas. This has been reiterated multiple times, and, in essence, he should have made this decision yesterday. He needs to take responsibility and make this difficult choice.”
Peskov’s remarks followed President Zelensky’s announcement that Russia had issued a new ultimatum, demanding that Ukraine withdraw its forces from Donbas. According to Peskov, the Russian side has warned that failure to comply could result in military action to seize the territory.
On March 31, Zelensky revealed that the aggressor nation had set new conditions for ending the conflict, specifically requiring Ukraine to vacate Donbas within two months. He expressed disbelief that anyone could take such demands seriously after years of warfare.
Zelensky noted that Russia claims that if Ukraine withdraws from Donbas, the war would conclude. However, he firmly rejected any notion of trading Donbas territory for other regions, asserting that Russia understands it could hold onto border territories but that there will come a time when Ukrainian forces will expel the occupiers.
Furthermore, Zelensky stressed the necessity of establishing a leaders’ summit during future negotiations, as he believes that only at such a level can a resolution regarding territorial issues be reached.
The Kremlin has demanded that Ukraine swiftly withdraw its military from Donbas, warning of potential military action otherwise. President Zelensky has rejected these demands, insisting on the importance of high-level negotiations to address territorial disputes.