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Russia's 'Spring Offensive' in Ukraine: US Links Security Guarantees to Donbas Concession
Russia's 'Spring Offensive' and Ukrainian Resistance
Russia has initiated an early 'spring offensive' in Ukraine, intensifying fighting along the eastern front after a winter pause. Russian forces are focusing on the Donbas so-called 'fortress belt', utilizing drones, missiles, and mechanized assaults to test Ukrainian defenses. Both sides are stepping up strikes along the 1,250 km front line, including major drone exchanges. However, Russia has made only limited territorial gains, despite its efforts to expand footholds in eastern and southern regions. Ukraine states it is holding its positions under heavy pressure.
Donbas Territory and US-Ukraine Relations
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told Reuters that the Trump administration is pressuring Ukraine to cede the rest of the eastern Donbas region to Russia to end the war, in exchange for security guarantees. Zelenskyy warned that giving up this territory, which covers about 5,000 square kilometers, would play into Russian President Vladimir Putin's hands and pose a high risk to Ukraine and Europe. Retired Vice Admiral Robert B. Murrett of the U.S. Navy emphasized that Donbas is a vital pathway to Europe, and losing it would significantly ease Russia's offensive capabilities further into Ukraine and beyond.
Large-Scale Aerial Attacks and Future Outlook
Russia launched almost 1,000 drones and 34 missiles at Ukraine since Tuesday, marking one of the largest aerial attacks of the war. Kyiv responded with almost 400 drones targeting Russia and occupied Crimea. Murrett noted that the Kremlin has not backed off its maximalist demands, which include assurances of a reduced Ukrainian military, rejection of future NATO membership, and potentially even European Union membership. He believes even if Ukraine were to cede Donbas, Russia would continue to ask for more, leading to a prolonged stalemate. The international community's focus on the Middle East conflict has provided Russia with a certain amount of breathing room on the battlefield, potentially exacerbating the situation.
*Source: YouTube: France 24 English (2026-03-26)*
