Putin: Russia Will Fully Liberate Donbas Regardless of Negotiations

Russian President Vladimir Putin has reaffirmed Moscow’s determination to completely liberate the Donbas region, stating that Russia will achieve this goal “in any case,” while simultaneously dismissing any prospect of returning to the G8 format.

In remarks emphasizing Russia’s conditions for ending the conflict in Ukraine, Putin said Moscow remains open to negotiations but only on the basis of Ukrainian forces withdrawing from territories Russia considers necessary for its control—primarily the entirety of Donbas. Speaking on the ongoing military operation, he noted that Russian forces are steadily advancing and increasing the pace of what he described as the “liberation” of the region.

“Proposals for a ceasefire are made regularly, but everything depends on the actions of Kyiv,” Putin said, adding that Russia had disagreed with certain points in recent U.S. peace proposals for Ukraine, though he characterized the diplomatic process as “difficult work.” Despite these challenges, he stressed that the complete liberation of Donbas remains non-negotiable for Moscow.

In a separate interview Putin firmly ruled out any return to the G8 (now G7) format with Russia’s participation. He described the idea as impossible in the current international climate, noting that unresolved issues and past rejections by other members have rendered the format irrelevant for Moscow.

“Russia is no longer interested in that,” Putin said, effectively closing the door on speculation about rejoining the group from which it was suspended in 2014.