Volodymyr Zelensky commented on Moscow's ultimatum demanding Ukraine withdraw from Donbas within two months, or else Russia would fully seize the region. He stressed that this demand is not only pressure on Ukraine but also a message directed at the US and its stance on the conflict.
Political analyst Ihor Petrenko noted that the Kremlin's rhetoric indicates broader Russian goals, and that each ultimatum is part of a staged escalation: first Crimea, then Donbas, then future expansions. Russia’s ultimate aim is political control over Ukraine, even if its formal statehood is acknowledged.
The discussion touches on the so-called "Anchorage agreements," which, according to Moscow, set out possible ways to settle the conflict, though their details remain obscure. Zelensky has called on Washington to clearly state its stance. It is emphasized that Russia has officially declared the so-called DNR, LNR, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia regions, and Crimea as its territories and will insist on control over these areas moving forward.
The role of the US and EU is also analyzed: without a united position, sanctions and diplomatic pressure on Russia are unlikely to be effective. The lack of coordination between the US and Europe delays negotiations on a ceasefire and potential compromises.
Geopolitical risks are explored, in particular the possibility of Russia engaging in Middle East conflict alongside Iran. Special attention is paid to the China-Pakistan plan to resolve the Iran situation and China’s role as a potential intermediary.
Experts note that China’s long-term strategy is to strengthen its influence through economic and diplomatic expansion, avoiding direct involvement in military conflicts. Against this background, Ukraine remains in the spotlight of global contention, and the positions of the US, China, EU, and Russia continue to shape the war and possible peace initiatives.
