By John Q. Hosedrinker 
President Zelenskyy declared Ukraine’s refusal to cede Donbas to Russia or recognize it as Russian territory. The United States has proposed a free economic zone for the region as a possible compromise, but Zelenskyy stressed this would not imply Russian control. Negotiations involving the US, Ukraine, and European leaders have focused on a revised peace plan, with the territorial issue remaining a key point of contention. While a referendum on territorial matters is not currently planned, Ukraine is open to elections in Donbas once a ceasefire is established.
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Ukraine’s unwavering stance on the Donbas region is crystal clear: it’s not considered Russian, not in the eyes of the law (de jure), and not in practical reality (de facto). This is the cornerstone of understanding the ongoing conflict, and it’s the foundation upon which any path towards peace must be built. The very fact that Russia launched a full-scale invasion is a stark testament to the truth. If the Donbas was already recognized as Russian, there would have been no need for military intervention, no justification for the devastating loss of life and the destruction that has unfolded. The core issue is simple and undeniable.
The historical agreements are also critical to understanding Ukraine’s position. Russia, like all nations, has formally recognized Ukraine’s borders in a series of international treaties. These include crucial documents like the Budapest Memorandum, the Helsinki Accords, and the United Nations Charter, all of which explicitly acknowledged Ukraine’s territorial integrity, including the Donbas. These aren’t just pieces of paper; they are legally binding commitments that Russia freely signed onto. Ignoring these agreements is a blatant violation of international law and a direct assault on the principles of sovereignty and self-determination. The point is not just legalistic; it’s about the fundamental respect that one nation owes another.
Russia’s actions in the Donbas—occupation and terrorization—do not alter the legal status of the region. Simply put, occupying a territory and attempting to reshape it through force doesn’t make it your own. It’s a violation of international norms, plain and simple. The attempt to create a new reality through military aggression is morally reprehensible and legally invalid. Ukraine maintains its sovereign claim over the Donbas, and it is a claim supported by international law and a multitude of international agreements that bind Russia. This unwavering stance is not stubbornness; it is an assertion of established legal boundaries.
There is a sense of urgency related to ending the conflict, and a degree of pressure stemming from outside influences. The nomination process for the Nobel Peace Prize closes on January 31, 2026. However, ending the war requires more than just good intentions. It demands that Russia come to the table and engage in genuine negotiations, something that, based on current actions, doesn’t seem to be a priority. The continued attacks and the unwillingness to engage in meaningful dialogue reveal a fundamental lack of interest in finding a peaceful resolution. Without Russia’s willingness to engage, any talk of ending the war is simply wishful thinking.
The current situation highlights a critical challenge: How can you negotiate peace with someone who doesn’t even acknowledge the validity of your claims, who continues to disregard international law, and who persists in inflicting suffering on your people? The answer is complex, but it begins with a firm foundation of truth and a steadfast commitment to justice. Ukraine’s position, as expressed by Zelenskyy, to not recognize Donbas as Russian, is not just a political statement; it’s a reflection of international legal principles, historical agreements, and the fundamental right to national self-determination.
The path toward peace is undeniably complicated, and it will require persistence, courage, and the unwavering support of the international community. It demands holding Russia accountable for its actions and ensuring that the fundamental principles of international law are upheld. Only when Russia recognizes the reality of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and demonstrates a genuine commitment to peace can a lasting resolution be achieved. This means accepting the legal status of the Donbas as Ukrainian territory, coming to the negotiating table in good faith, and ending the ongoing aggression. The long road toward resolution requires that Russia recognize Ukraine’s sovereignty, fully abide by international law, and end its assault on the very foundation of peaceful coexistence among nations.