On the DMZ itself, Ushakov said there will be no troops — neither Russian nor Ukrainian — but Russian National Guard, police, and “everything necessary to maintain order.” Zelenskyy has stated he will hold a referendum on any peace plan. 9X
Full-scale invasion and national resilience, broadcasted live.
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Putin’s adviser says territory to be taken by negotiation or military
Putin’s diplomatic adviser Yuri Ushakov in late 2025: “Sooner or later, if not by negotiation then by military action, this territory will come under full control of the Russian Federation.” 8/
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France and UK promise troops in Odesa, Kremlin warns targets
France and the UK have promised to deploy troops in strategic locations including Odesa. The Kremlin has already warned these soldiers would be considered “targets.” 7/
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Ukraine must withdraw from Kramatorsk for Donbas DMZ
A DMZ in Donbas would require Ukraine to withdraw from Kramatorsk — a city of nearly 150,000 before the war, still home to tens of thousands of civilians. Without a Russian withdrawal, entire populations would be left on the front line with no means of defense. 6/
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Zelensky calls for special economic zone
Zelenskyy: "Since there is no longer any trust in the Russians, and they have repeatedly broken their promises, the current line of contact de facto becomes a special economic zone. The presence of international forces is necessary."
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Ukraine demands international control of Korean-style DMZ
A demilitarized zone modeled on the Korean DMZ is on the table. Unlike the Korean version, Ukraine insists it must be controlled by international forces — not Russian police or national guard. 4/
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Russia claims full annexation of Luhansk and Donetsk despite partial control
Russia claims full annexation of both Luhansk and Donetsk oblasts — including territory its army does not fully control. It occupies nearly all of Luhansk and 80% of Donetsk. 2/
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Zelenskyy: Demilitarized zone in Donbas unrealistic, per Le Monde
A demilitarized zone in Donbas remains an unrealistic option — Le Monde. Zelenskyy: “The Russians want us to leave Donetsk Oblast. The Americans are looking for a solution that is not a real withdrawal — they want to create a demilitarized zone or a special economic zone. 1/
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Fedorov proposes killing or wounding 50,000 Russian troops monthly
Fedorov: “The goal is to kill or seriously wound 50,000 Russian soldiers per month, up from around 35,000 now. That will impose costs on Russia that it cannot bear and force peace through strength.” 8/
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Russian soldier deaths estimated at 352,000 by end of 2025
By the end of 2025 an estimated 352,000 Russian soldiers had been killed — more than six times US losses in the Vietnam War. Russia also missed recruitment targets in the first months of 2026. 7/