The Washington Post has published new details on the terms Russia is demanding in negotiations with Donald Trump over the resolution of the Ukraine conflict. According to the report, Moscow is unwilling to return the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions to Ukrainian control and insists on the full withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from Donbas.
The Kremlin, sources say, is exploring the possibility of a temporary truce rather than a permanent peace settlement. President Putin reportedly seeks to secure a land corridor to Crimea and partial control over electricity supply to Donbas by splitting the capacity of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant.
Russia is also pushing for the participation of pro-Russian politicians in future Ukrainian elections and for the lifting of bans on certain political parties. Analysts warn that such demands could further destabilize Ukraine politically.
At the same time, Ukraine is calling for security guarantees, including NATO integration and the presence of international military contingents. President Zelensky has emphasized that any end to the war must be fair, stating that Ukraine has already paid too high a price for its independence.
Russia’s conditions also include demilitarizing the left bank of the Dnipro river and restricting Ukrainian military capabilities in that area. Observers note these measures are part of a long-term Russian strategy to divide Ukraine and maintain influence in its territories.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces continue to liberate settlements from Russian occupation, stressing that negotiations should not result in a frozen conflict. The frontline situation remains tense, and Kyiv is actively mobilizing international support.
Amid these developments, opinions differ on prospects for ending the war. Experts believe Russia is trying to buy time and push for favorable terms, while Ukraine’s allies and its own resilience will be crucial in determining the outcome of any talks.
