### Ukraine's Zelenskyy Proposes Demilitarized Zone in Donbas to Facilitate Peace Talks Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed a willingness to establish a demilitarized zone in the Donbas region, contingent upon a reciprocal withdrawal of Russian troops. This proposal emerges as part of ongoing efforts to negotiate an end to the prolonged conflict between Ukraine and Russia, which has persisted for nearly four years. Zelenskyy's openness to this compromise reflects a significant shift in Ukraine's stance, aiming to create a framework for peace that includes international oversight of the proposed demilitarized area. The discussions also involve the potential establishment of a "free economic zone" in the region, although the implications of this idea remain unclear [https://www.newindianexpress.com/world/2025/dec/25/zelenskyy-open-to-demilitarised-zone-in-ukraines-donbass-region-if-russia-also-withdraws-troops, https://www.manilatimes.net/2025/12/25/world/americas-emea/zelenskyy-says-hes-open-to-creating-demilitarized-zone-in-ukraines-industrial-heartland/2249449]. ### Structure of the Proposal and Context 1. **Demilitarized Zone Proposal**: Zelenskyy is willing to withdraw Ukrainian troops from the eastern industrial heartland of Donbas if Russia reciprocates and the area is monitored by international forces [https://www.dimsumdaily.hk/zelensky-signals-openness-to-demilitarised-zone-in-donbas-under-international-oversight]. 2. **International Oversight**: The proposed demilitarized zone would be overseen by international forces, which aims to ensure compliance and stability in the region [https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2025/dec/25/ukraine-floats-withdrawing-eastern-troops]. 3. **Economic Considerations**: Zelenskyy has mentioned the idea of a "free economic zone" in conjunction with the demilitarized zone, although the specifics of this economic arrangement are still under discussion [https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/ukraines-volodymyr-zelensky-open-to-creating-demilitarised-zone-in-donbas-if-russia-101766600591214.html]. 4. **Negotiation Dynamics**: The proposal is part of a broader negotiation strategy, with the United States and Ukraine reaching a consensus on several key issues, although territorial disputes remain unresolved [https://www.cp24.com/news/world/2025/12/24/us-and-ukraine-reach-consensus-on-key-issues-aimed-at-ending-the-war-but-territorial-disputes-remain]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Troop Withdrawal**: Zelenskyy's willingness to withdraw troops is a significant concession, indicating a potential shift towards peace negotiations [https://www.newsweek.com/russia-ukraine-war-zelensky-donbas-concession-trump-peace-11264609]. - **International Monitoring**: The involvement of international forces is crucial for the success of the demilitarized zone, as it aims to prevent further escalations and ensure compliance from both sides [https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/12/24/world/russia-ukraine-war-updates]. - **Economic Zone Proposal**: The concept of a free economic zone could provide economic incentives for both Ukraine and Russia, potentially fostering cooperation in a post-conflict scenario [https://www.redstate.com/wardclark/2025/12/24/zelensky-proposes-demilitarized-zone-in-new-peace-proposal-n2197468]. ### Conclusion and Implications In summary, **Zelenskyy's proposal for a demilitarized zone in Donbas represents a significant step towards potential peace in the ongoing conflict with Russia**. The key points of this proposal include: 1. **Willingness to Withdraw Troops**: Zelenskyy is prepared to pull back Ukrainian forces if Russia does the same, which could lead to a reduction in hostilities [https://www.1news.co.nz/2025/12/25/zelensky-unveils-new-peace-draft-says-hes-open-to-demilitarised-zone]. 2. **International Oversight**: The establishment of a demilitarized zone monitored by international forces is aimed at ensuring compliance and stability in the region [https://www.semafor.com/article/12/24/2025/kyiv-signals-openness-to-demilitarized-zones-in-peace-talks-with-russia]. 3. **Economic Considerations**: The proposal includes discussions about a free economic zone, which could provide economic benefits and foster cooperation post-conflict [https://www.cbsnews.com/news/russia-ukraine-war-demilitarized-zones-zelenskyy]. 4. **Negotiation Landscape**: The ongoing negotiations reflect a complex landscape where territorial disputes and economic considerations will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Ukraine and its relations with Russia [https://www.theglobeandmail.com/world/article-us-and-ukraine-have-draft-proposal-for-ending-war-with-russia-zelensky]. This proposal, if accepted, could mark a pivotal moment in the resolution of the conflict, although the response from Russia remains uncertain.