Russia Sticks to Maximalist Demands in Peace Negotiations

Russia has reiterated its uncompromising demands regarding Ukraine in a recent communique to the U.S., indicating control over the Donbas region and no NATO presence. The informal diplomatic document casts doubt over a potential summit between U.S. and Russian leaders. President Trump favors ceasefire along current lines.

Russia has reiterated its previous terms for a peace deal with Ukraine in a non-paper sent to the U.S. over the weekend, according to officials. Russia's demand includes control of Ukraine's Donbas region, opposing President Trump's idea of freezing frontlines at prevailing locations.

The informal communication also maintains Russia's opposition to any NATO deployment in Ukraine, with uncertainties surrounding a proposed summit between U.S. President Trump and Russian President Putin in Budapest. A White House representative stated there are no imminent plans for the meeting.

In discussions, U.S. officials proposed a Kremlin plan to Ukrainian President Zelenskiy for ceding Donbas, exchanging territories in Zaporizhzhia and Kherson. Zelenskiy opposed, as Trump supported freezing existing battle lines. This underscores Russia's firm stance on Ukraine.