US pushing Ukraine to withdraw from Donbas and create ‘free economic zone’, says Zelenskyy – as it happened

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the United States is urging Ukraine to withdraw its troops from the Donbas region and create a “free economic zone” in areas currently controlled by Kyiv. Zelenskyy indicated that this proposal represents a shift from earlier suggestions by the U.S., which had included handing over parts of Donbas to Russia. Under the new plan, Ukrainian troops would withdraw, but Russian troops would remain in the region without advancing further, according to Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy emphasized that any plan for a “free economic zone” would need guarantees to ensure that Russia would not simply take over the territory. This statement reflects ongoing discussions regarding the future of the Donbas region amid the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The proposal has raised concerns about the implications for Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty. In related developments, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg highlighted that European partners, including Germany, are prepared to take on more responsibility in the context of the ongoing geopolitical situation. Friedrich Merz, a German politician, has offered to host talks aimed at ensuring that any agreements regarding Ukraine are not made “above Europe’s head.” This indicates a desire for European involvement in the peace process concerning Ukraine.