The Kremlin reportedly intends to keep the border areas as buffer zones while pressing ahead with its goal of capturing the entire Donetsk and Luhansk regions.

Kremlin's control over Sumy and Kharkiv complicates peace talks. Russian entry into Sloviansk by December 31, 2026 at 17% YES.

The Kremlin is willing to engage in negotiations with Ukraine only after establishing control over Donetsk Oblast.