Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that if the Ukrainian army does not withdraw from the Donbas region, Russian armed forces will take control of the territory. Putin made this statement with the aim of ensuring full control over Donbas, including Donetsk and Luhansk.
The editorial reports, citing the BBC, that this statement indicates Moscow's continued hardline demands during possible peace talks with Kyiv. Analysts believe that Russia intends to demonstrate its strength both domestically and internationally with this stance.
Ukrainian officials and the military have stated that the country will not voluntarily withdraw from its territory and that any territorial concessions in Donbas will not be possible. The Ukrainian side has rejected Putin's ultimatum and is continuing its military preparations.