Some Ukrainians fleeing war-torn Donbas suggest it is time for a deal

Train services no longer reach the eastern Donetsk region of Ukraine, part of the Donbas claimed entirely by Russia. The final stop is now on the western edge of Donetsk, where civilians and soldiers gather for transport to safer areas, effectively their escape route from the frontlines.

Since the leak of US proposals aimed at ending the conflict, Russian President Vladimir Putin has sounded increasingly confident, seemingly aligned with his maximalist ambitions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlights that territorial disputes remain the most challenging aspect of ongoing US-led peace discussions.

At the last station, soldier Andrii and his girlfriend Polina bid farewell after a brief reunion, uncertain when they will meet again. Andrii dismisses the peace talks, including previous efforts by envoys from former US President Donald Trump, calling them mere chatter. He does not expect the war to end soon.

Another soldier, Denys, insists that the Donbas must not be ceded to Russia. Many soldiers traveling west for short leave are visibly exhausted after months on the front. Russian forces currently control roughly 85% of the Donbas, including Luhansk and Donetsk provinces. Recently, Russia claimed the strategic town of Pokrovsk, though fighting continues according to Ukrainian reports.

Denys, who has served for two years, describes the toll on troops: Everyone is drained, mentally and physically. His unit has been stationed in the besieged city of Kostyantynivka, facing constant drone surveillance. Despite the hardships, he is resolute: No one will give Putin the Donbas. Its our land.

Many Ukrainians oppose ceding territory where at least 250,000 people live, including the key cities of Slovyansk, Kramatorsk, and Druzhkivka. While Russia has spent over a year trying to capture Pokrovsk, Ukraine is reluctant to surrender such strategically important areas. US officials, however, view Ukraine as outnumbered and outgunned.

Civilians continue to flee Donbas, often using foggy conditions to reduce exposure to drones. Reception centers just across the border, such as in Lozova, handle around 200 arrivals daily, providing basic supplies and assistance.

Yevheniy and his wife Maryna arrived with their children from Kramatorsk, expressing fear of the increasing drone activity and the daily dangers outside. They plan to relocate to Kyiv and have little faith in the success of peace talks.

Others, like Oleksandr, are contemplating leaving their homes permanently to ensure safety, even if it involves territorial concessions outlined in leaked US draft proposals. Similarly, Inna, fleeing with five children, sees a deal as necessary for peace, prioritizing safety over her home.

Desertion among Ukrainian troops has surged, with nearly 300,000 cases reported since Russias full-scale invasion. Serhii, a soldier in hiding, explains that poor leadership and lack of equipment contributed to his departure. Despite doubts about Ukraines chances against a far larger force, he remains cautious and unsure about returning to active duty.

Across Donbas, the combination of ongoing battles, civilian displacement, and strategic uncertainty has led many Ukrainians to consider compromise, though a strong resolve to defend their territory persists.

Author: Ethan Caldwell