Zelensky Floats Donbas "Free Zone" in Peace Plan

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has suggested a new idea for the contested eastern Donbas region. In a recent statement, he said establishing a "free economic zone" there is a potential option in peace talks. A free economic zone is a special area with different business and trade rules. This concept is part of Zelensky's latest framework for a possible future settlement with Russia. The Donbas has been a central battleground since 2014. Zelensky's comment indicates a possible Ukrainian withdrawal from full political control of the area. However, he did not provide specific details on how such a zone would operate or be secured. The proposal comes as Ukraine continues its military defense against Russian forces. Any peace plan would require agreement from Moscow, which has not yet responded to this specific idea.