Summary
Many Ukrainians from the Donbas region, which is heavily affected by the war, are fleeing as peace talks continue. President Putin's forces control most of Donbas, but Ukraine is opposed to giving up territory. Skepticism exists about the effectiveness of current peace negotiations led by the U.S., with some Ukrainians willing to consider territorial compromises for peace.
Key Facts
- Trains no longer reach Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region due to Russian control, ending at the last station on the western side.
- President Putin is confident since the leak of U.S. proposals that align with his demands in the peace talks.
- Ukrainian President Zelensky says territorial issues are the hardest part of U.S.-led peace negotiations.
- Russian forces now control about 85% of Donbas, including the key town of Pokrovsk, though Ukraine claims fighting continues.
- Soldier Denys and others insist they will not give up the Donbas region, considering it their land.
- Many civilians are leaving Donbas amid ongoing peace talks, using foggy weather to avoid enemy drones.
- Some people, like Yevheniy and his family, doubt the success of peace talks and choose to flee to Kyiv.
- Others are considering leaving Donbas permanently if it means achieving peace, despite concerns about Russia's demands.
