As Russia steps up its efforts in eastern Ukraine, their attention has increasingly turned toward Donbas, an area rich in strategic and resource assets which President Vladimir Putin seems determined to control fully. This development has raised alarm among both Ukraine and international observers as the stakes for the conflict escalate further.
Donbas, located in Ukraine’s eastern region, comprises two administrative regions – Donetsk and Luhansk – which have been at the centre of considerable conflict since 2014. When pro-Russian separatists supported by Moscow took control of parts of Donbas following Russia’s annexation of Crimea, leading to full-scale war as Ukraine sought to regain these territories from pro-Russian separatists; an ongoing struggle over territorial dominance ensued as Ukrainian government attempted to restore order over these territories, leading to ongoing war between sides until recently when both governments reached agreements about mutual respecting territories that would keep both parties happy.
Geopolitically, Donbas holds significant significance. The region hosts much of Ukraine’s industrial base – from key coal mines and steel factories to chemical plants – making it a significant economic powerhouse. Furthermore, Donbas boasts an ethnic Russian-speaking population which has given Russia justification to intervene militarily despite widespread international condemnation.
As the conflict drags on, Putin’s strategy in Donbas has gradually evolved. At first, Russian involvement was indirect – Moscow offering covert support to separatist forces – but as it progresses Russia has increased its military presence in Donbas and pushed to gain full control over it as part of Russia. His ambitions become increasingly clear through reports suggesting permanent military bases and infrastructure being established throughout Donbas thereby further entrenching Russia’s occupation.
Ukraine, for its part, has held off Moscow’s advances, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy making clear that restoration of Ukrainian territorial integrity cannot be compromised. Ukrainian forces supported by Western military aid continue their battles against Russian troops for control over key cities and towns in Donbas. Despite significant casualties on both sides, Ukrainian military have held its ground against Russia’s attempts at seizing control of entire Donbas region.
The international community has expressed grave alarm over Vladimir Putin’s increasingly aggressive stance. Western nations, led by the US and European Union, have responded by imposing sanctions against Russia for its actions in Donbas. These measures target key sectors of Russia’s economy such as energy, defense and finance with hopes of pressuring him into leaving Ukrainian territory behind; yet these have had little impact and Putin appears determined to pursue his plans for total control of Donbas.
The ongoing conflict for Donbas has far-reaching ramifications for Ukraine’s future and relationship with the West. Control over this region is seen as paramount not only from a military and economic standpoint but also as part of Ukraine’s desire to become more fully integrated into European and global society. Russia’s intrusion on Ukrainian territory remains an increasing source of tension as Russia advances ever further on Ukrainian land.
As Putin remains focused on seizing control of Ukraine’s Donbas, the international community must acknowledge the larger implications of Russian expansionism. At stake is not just Ukraine but global security and stability as this region remains at the core of a geopolitical battle between Russia and the West – its outcome may alter both their futures as well as that of international order itself.