Putin vows to liberate Donbas—no compromise as US peace plan surfaces
Putin vows to liberate Donbas—no compromise as US peace plan surfaces
Putin reiterates Moscow's aim to control Donbas and broader Novorossiya, signaling no territorial compromise as fresh US peace proposals surface.
In a wide-ranging interview with India Today and Aaj Tak, Vladimir Putin said Moscow would secure full control over Donbas and the broader Novorossiya region—“one way or another”—whether through military means or other political mechanisms. The hard-line framing comes as fighting in eastern Ukraine persists and diplomacy re-emerges around a US peace proposal. Putin asserted that these territories are historically linked to Russia and central to its security, a stance unlikely to soften in the near term.
Donbas, comprising Donetsk and Luhansk, has been the war’s epicentre since 2014. Novorossiya, a broader historical term, refers to southeastern Ukrainian territories that Russia has increasingly sought to influence over since the 2022 invasion. Putin cast these regions as intrinsically tied to Russia’s identity and strategic interests, explaining why Moscow prioritizes securing control “one way or another.”
He also acknowledged ongoing talks with the United States over a 28-point peace proposal, saying Russia disagreed with several points and that negotiations are a “complex work.” He noted that Washington had suggested breaking the plan into four packages to address issues package by package—a method Moscow is evaluating. The Kremlin’s public confirmation of these discussions marks a notable shift after months of diplomatic freeze, signaling that dialogue may be resuming even as on-the-ground fighting continues.
Separately, Putin stated there was “no intention of rejoining the G8,” arguing that the current G7 format has shown diminishing relevance in a changing global economy. The remark underscores Moscow’s preference for negotiating within formats it views as more aligned with its interests while continuing to resist Western-led diplomacy.
As the war drags on, observers and Western officials watch for openings in talks or potential de-escalation. Putin’s comments send a clear signal on red lines for Donbas and Novorossiya, even as diplomacy remains a fragile, evolving process with uncertain outcomes.
Cover image source: ‘Will liberate Donbas, Novorossiya’: Putin signals no territorial compromise amid US peace proposal 🔗
