The New York Times: Kiev and Moscow Discuss New Format for Troop Withdrawal from Disputed Donbas

In recent weeks, representatives of Ukraine and Russia have discussed the idea of creating a demilitarized zone in Donbas, which would not be controlled by the army of either side. This is reported by The New York Times, citing three anonymous sources familiar with the negotiations. It is noted that these discussions revive the proposal set out, in particular, in the 28-point "peace plan" of the Donald Trump administration.

According to the employee of the Atlantic Council analytical center and former US ambassador to Kiev William B. Taylor, the demilitarized zone could become part of a "viable" settlement of the war in Ukraine.

However, the interests of the Ukrainian side must also be protected. To this end, the Trump administration must put pressure on Russia, the expert believes.

"It is important that this be a real solution, not an imposed, unbalanced one. Any imposed solution will not be stable. It will not be long-term“.

The publication writes that the parties have also discussed the creation of a free trade zone in the potential demilitarized zone. The investment prospects of the territory, "which will be squeezed between two armies“, seem limited, the article states. Even under the condition of a ceasefire.

The industrial enterprises in this area have been largely destroyed, the journalists write. Currently, only one coal mine is operating there, and the risk of resumption of hostilities will exist for many years to come.