Story perspectives

Kremlin drafts cease-fire, eyes Donbas occupation by autumn

5/13/2026

23 5

Summary

Story summary

Russian military leaders persuaded President Vladimir Putin that Moscow can occupy the Donbas region by autumn, prompting the Kremlin to draft cease-fire terms.
The Kremlin’s aim to control Kyiv, Dnipro and Odesa is underscored by Ukrainian intelligence’s warning that a Donbas victory could spur demands for Zaporizhzhia and Kherson.
Kyiv and Moscow remain skeptical that U.S.-mediated peace talks will succeed.
Ukraine expresses frustration with Washington’s limited ability to pressure Russia.

1 of 1

Story summary

Russian military leaders persuaded President Vladimir Putin that Moscow can occupy the Donbas region by autumn, prompting the Kremlin to draft cease-fire terms.
The Kremlin’s aim to control Kyiv, Dnipro and Odesa is underscored by Ukrainian intelligence’s warning that a Donbas victory could spur demands for Zaporizhzhia and Kherson.
Kyiv and Moscow remain skeptical that U.S.-mediated peace talks will succeed.
Ukraine expresses frustration with Washington’s limited ability to pressure Russia.