Story perspectives

Ukraine Rejects Draft for Russian-Controlled Demilitarized Zone

11/25/2025

Summary

Story summary

The draft proposes withdrawing Ukrainian forces from Donetsk Oblast to create a neutral demilitarized zone recognized as Russian territory.
The draft would cap Ukrainian forces at 600,000, down from an estimated 880,000.
Ukrainian representative Khrystyna Hayovyshyn says Ukraine will not recognize Russian claims or accept limits on self-defense.
The draft proposes Crimea, Luhansk, and Donetsk be recognized as de facto Russian, enabling Kyiv to navigate recognition without changing its borders.

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Story summary

The draft proposes withdrawing Ukrainian forces from Donetsk Oblast to create a neutral demilitarized zone recognized as Russian territory.
The draft would cap Ukrainian forces at 600,000, down from an estimated 880,000.
Ukrainian representative Khrystyna Hayovyshyn says Ukraine will not recognize Russian claims or accept limits on self-defense.
The draft proposes Crimea, Luhansk, and Donetsk be recognized as de facto Russian, enabling Kyiv to navigate recognition without changing its borders.