Russia Controls Nearly 80% of Donbas Region, Raising Fears of Trump-Brokered Concessions
WASHINGTON – Russia currently occupies 78 percent of the Donbas region of Ukraine, according to recent assessments, as concerns mount over potential concessions to Moscow following reported conversations between former President donald Trump and both vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The revelation of Russia’s extensive control over the contested territory coincides with reports that Trump suggested to Zelenskyy that Ukraine accept Putin’s terms for peace or risk “destruction,” sparking a heated exchange.
The escalating situation underscores the precarious position of Ukraine as it continues to defend against Russia’s ongoing invasion, and raises anxieties among European officials that any U.S.-led push for peace talks could prioritize Russian gains over Ukrainian sovereignty.The developments come after Trump announced a phone conversation with Putin where the two reportedly discussed restarting peace negotiations in Budapest,a proposal met with apprehension by Kyiv and its allies.
According to sources, the meeting with Zelenskyy devolved into a shouting match after Trump reportedly conveyed that Ukraine could either accept Putin’s terms for peace or face further devastation from russia. This account, published by the Financial Times, adds fuel to concerns that Trump may be receptive to Kremlin narratives regarding the conflict.
The reported phone call between Trump and Putin occurred the day before the reported exchange with Zelenskyy. During the call,the two leaders agreed to explore restarting peace talks with a potential meeting in Budapest. This prompted immediate worry among Ukrainian and European officials, who fear the former American president may be unduly influenced by Russian talking points.
