Russian President Vladimir Putin has insisted that Ukraine must surrender full control of Donetsk, a vital region in eastern Ukraine, as a condition for ending the ongoing war. This demand was made during a recent phone call with US President Donald Trump, according to two senior officials familiar with the conversation. The insistence on Donetsk highlights Russia's long-standing territorial ambitions, which have contributed to the conflict's stalemate since 2014.

Putin's focus on Donetsk is significant, as Russian and proxy forces have controlled parts of the region since 2014 but have failed to conquer it entirely. Ukrainian troops are well entrenched in the area, viewing it as a crucial defense line against further Russian advances towards Kyiv. The region's control is seen as essential for both military strategy and national pride.

During the call, Putin suggested he might be willing to relinquish parts of two other regions, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson, in exchange for full control of Donetsk. This proposal has been described by some White House officials as a narrowing of Russia's earlier demands. However, European diplomats have dismissed it as inadequate, with one stating, "It’s like selling them their own leg in exchange for nothing."

Trump has not publicly endorsed Putin's demand. After a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, he called for an end to the violence, stating, "It is time to stop the killing, and make a DEAL! Enough blood has been shed, with property lines being defined by War and Guts. They should stop where they are. Let both claim Victory, let History decide!" Trump is expected to meet Putin in Hungary soon to continue discussions on a potential settlement.

The front lines in Ukraine have remained largely unchanged over the past year, with Russia controlling about 20% of Ukrainian territory since its full-scale invasion began in February 2022. Ukrainian officials left recent talks in Washington disappointed, having failed to secure long-range Tomahawk missiles they had sought from the US. Despite Trump's recent focus on ending the war, the situation remains complex, with both sides entrenched in their positions.