US Pushes for Elections and Referendum in Ukraine as Peace Plan Stalls Over Territory

Proposed 'free economic zone' in Donbas raises questions about Ukraine's sovereignty and security guarantees

Feb. 6, 2026 at 10:39pm

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The path to peace in Ukraine is becoming increasingly complex, with the United States proposing a controversial 'free economic zone' in parts of the Donbas region. This suggestion, revealed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, involves a potential Ukrainian withdrawal from the area, raising significant questions about territorial control and future security guarantees. The situation is further complicated by differing timelines and internal political considerations within both Ukraine and the US.

Why it matters

The US proposal for a 'free economic zone' in Donbas is a compromise that acknowledges Russia's interests in the region, but it raises concerns about Ukraine's sovereignty and the practicalities of managing such a zone. The disagreements over territorial issues, particularly concerning Donbas and the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, are causing delays in the peace negotiations, which could be further prolonged by the US administration's focus on domestic issues ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.

The details

According to Zelensky, the US has suggested establishing a 'free economic zone' in portions of the Donbas region currently contested by Russia and Ukraine. This zone would effectively operate outside of Ukraine's direct control, a proposition stemming from ongoing negotiations aimed at ending the conflict. The idea is a compromise, acknowledging Russia's interest in the region while attempting to avoid a complete cession of Ukrainian territory. However, Zelensky has voiced concerns about the practicalities of managing such a zone and ensuring fair reciprocal troop withdrawals.

  • Initial discussions centered around a possible resolution by Christmas 2025, but disagreements over territorial issues are causing delays.
  • The US administration, anticipating a focus on domestic issues with the upcoming midterm elections in November, may have limited bandwidth for intensive peace negotiations.

The players

Volodymyr Zelensky

The President of Ukraine, who has voiced concerns about the practicalities of managing a 'free economic zone' in Donbas and the need for security guarantees.

United States

The US has proposed the establishment of a 'free economic zone' in parts of the Donbas region, as part of ongoing negotiations to end the conflict in Ukraine.

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What they’re saying

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— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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