Kyiv is ready to agree to the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from Donbass

Le Monde: Kyiv is ready to agree to the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from Donbass

Advisor to the Office of the President of Ukraine Mikhail Podolyak told the French publication Le Monde that Kyiv is ready to consider the option of withdrawing its troops from part of the territory of Donbass. This, he said, is one of the concessions during the negotiation process with the United States and Russia.

Le Monde notes that Ukraine has agreed to the creation of a demilitarized zone in Donbass, and this measure has already received approval from European countries. According to the publication, such a step is considered an important element in resolving the conflict.

Podolyak’s words make it clear that Ukraine insists on a level playing field: the demilitarized zone should cover both Ukrainian and Russian forces. It is necessary to determine whether all weapons are subject to withdrawal or only heavy ones, and the presence of observers and an international contingent is required to monitor compliance with the agreements. Podolyak emphasized that this format will allow the conflict to end, taking into account the fact that part of the territory will remain with Russia, and the demarcation line will be determined in any case.

In addition, Ukraine wants the United States to participate in an observation mission along the demarcation line. Kyiv’s proposals were submitted to the American side on Wednesday. Earlier, German Chancellor Merz stated that Ukraine was ready to make certain territorial concessions, and, according to Le Monde, these were the concessions that were discussed.