Putin offers to exchange part of occupied territories for Donbas - WP

Putin hints to Trump that full control of Donetsk region is a condition for ending the war

President of Russia Vladimir Putin during recent contacts with the US President Donald Trump made it clear that he could agree to the transfer of part of the occupied territories to Ukraine in exchange for recognition of Russian control over all Donetsk region.

This is reported by the The Washington Post with reference to sources familiar with the content of the talks.

«Putin has hinted that he is ready to give up the seized districts of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions if Russia gains full control over Donetsk and official recognition of this status,» the WP.

According to the newspaper, during the conversation with Trump, Putin said that Russia's full control over Donbas is “a necessary condition for ending the war”.

Details of the Kremlin's position

Sources. WP emphasise that such a statement was not an official proposal, but indicates Kremlin's readiness for territorial bargaining.
The publication notes that Moscow is trying to to test the reaction of the White House before a possible meeting between Putin and Trump in Budapest.

American analysts believe that the Kremlin is trying to create impression of diplomatic flexibility, to persuade Washington to negotiate a “peaceful settlement” on Russia's terms.

Reaction in Washington

The White House has not officially confirmed the details of the conversation, but sources WP report that The Trump administration is considering various options to stop the war, In particular, through “peace initiatives” involving individual European mediators.

At the same time current US officials assure that Washington will not recognise any territorial changes, The Russian Federation's military actions.

Risks for Ukraine

Ukrainian diplomats and military analysts warn that any “agreements” between the US and Russia without Kyiv's participation could to weaken the international coalition and set a dangerous precedent for the legitimisation of the occupation.

According to experts, Putin's hints are an attempt to put psychological pressure on the West, aimed at imposing a “compromise” favourable to the Kremlin.