Which areas is Russia demanding as its price for peace in Ukraine? – visual explainer

Moscow is demanding that Kyiv accept its annexation of occupied territories as a condition for peace, following unproductive talks between Russian and U.S. envoys. The areas in question include strategic locations such as Sevastopol and Donetsk, highlighting the ongoing territorial disputes central to the conflict.

This demand underscores Russia's position that territorial concessions are essential for any peace agreement, which complicates the already tense negotiations and raises concerns about Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The situation reflects a broader geopolitical struggle, as Ukraine's allies, including the U.S. and European nations, emphasize the importance of maintaining Ukraine's borders against forceful changes, while Russia continues to assert its claims, leading to a stalemate in peace efforts.