The traditionally Russian-speaking area is at the heart of what the Russian president calls the “root causes” of the war, and taking it over is near the top of his list of territorial and political demands.

Donald Trump is reportedly planning to urge Ukraine to surrender the Donetsk and Luhansk regions as part of negotiations over an end to the war.

Russia unveils proposal to end Ukraine war, demanding control of Donbas and recognition of Crimea, while Kyiv rejects territorial concessions.