Ukrainians Uphold Strong Stance on Eastern Donetsk Withdrawal

A poll reveals that a majority of Ukrainians oppose withdrawing troops from Donetsk for European and U.S. security promises. Despite pressure for a swift peace deal, Kyiv resists ceding territory to Russia. The survey showed low confidence in negotiations achieving lasting peace or sufficient security guarantees.

A new poll by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology suggests a firm stance among Ukrainians against withdrawing troops from areas of Donetsk under Kyiv's control in return for security assurances from Europe and the U.S.

Despite American pressure for a rapid peace agreement, Ukraine remains firm on not conceding land in the mineral-rich Donbas region, citing past failures of security guarantees and the potential for future Russian aggression.

With Russia intensifying air strikes and energy infrastructure damage, leaving millions in crisis, security talks remain fraught with uncertainty, as the majority fear any ceasefire may be just a temporary reprieve.

(With inputs from agencies.)