Kuleba on Donbas: society may agree to a painful deal.

According to ТСН: The true sentiments of Ukrainians regarding the future of the Donbas significantly differ from the results of sociological surveys. Society may show a willingness to accept a difficult peace deal under which the Armed Forces of Ukraine would leave the territory of Donetsk region, while preserving the sovereignty of the country.

What to do with Donetsk region: the opinion of Ukrainians

Former Foreign Minister of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba believes that Ukrainian society may agree to transfer part of the territory of Donetsk to Russia if it guarantees an end to the war, financial assistance for recovery, and membership in the European Union.

“What everyone sees in the ratings and in surveys is one story. And what people say on the streets and in kitchens is completely different. My impression is this — if people are told: 'Here’s what we need to give up, but it will all stop, and here’s what we will get in return, and that’s a strong army, billions for recovery, and EU membership', excuse me, I will express a heretical opinion: it seems to me that this is a story that society will be ready to accept”

He also noted that Ukrainians may agree to such concessions only on the condition that the agreement does not stipulate that the country renounces its territories forever.

What will happen if a free economic zone is created?

Kuleba commented on the proposal from the United States to create a free economic zone in the Donetsk region.

“But today there are huge risks for the country. The key issue is that, okay, there will be a free economic zone. Let’s assume that, theoretically, the Russians agreed to this, although they do not agree to it. What will happen if a Hitler-like scenario occurs and in the Ruhr area?”

He reminded that after World War I, the Ruhr area was demilitarized. Everyone promised not to allow Germany to regain control of this region.

“And Hitler just walked in and said 'goodbye'. And what did everyone do? They all shut their mouths, were silent, and swallowed. That is the question that actually has no answer”

What hinders the peace process?

According to Kuleba, even if a peace agreement is put to a referendum and society is ready to accept a difficult agreement in which the Armed Forces of Ukraine withdraw from Donetsk, Ukraine's sovereignty will still remain protected. However, an agreement cannot be reached until there is a clear understanding that Russian occupiers will not return to the areas from which Ukrainian forces will withdraw.

“What they will do is 300%, you can not even doubt it. And how to solve this last dilemma — this is actually what hinders the peace process”

According to data from a January survey, 53% of Ukrainians remain against any concessions to Russia, viewing them as a threat to territorial integrity. At the same time, the number of those who are ready to support maintaining the frontline without official recognition of annexation is increasing — this approach is supported by 40% of respondents. 58% of citizens oppose legal recognition of occupied territories as part of Russia, while the number of those who are undecided has almost doubled.

This article expresses the opinion that powerful national interests may require discussion and complex compromises to achieve the long-awaited peace. The position of society is important, as it may change its view on delicate issues related to territorial concessions under different circumstances. Such discussions will continue, as the government must find a balance between such compromises and the sovereignty of Ukraine.