US pushes Donbas 'free economic zone'; Ukraine to withdraw even from uncontrolled parts[3]. Zelensky 'can't accept it, but can't reject Washington,' opts for referendum[3]. Coverage in Firstpost's Vantage on December 13, trending December 14[3].

Ukraine Donbas Referendum: US Peace Plan Dec 14 News

Ukraine Floats Referendum on US Donbas Free Zone Proposal Amid Widening War: Dec 14 Update

December 14, 2025 • 1 min read • ukraine , donbas

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Zelensky considers nationwide referendum on US plan for Donbas 'free economic zone' buffer as Russia controls most area, per Firstpost report amplified on December 14, 2025.

Overview

Ukraine's Zelensky is mulling a nationwide referendum on a US proposal to create a 'free economic zone' in Donbas as a buffer, despite Russian control of most territory, as war escalates—reported December 13-14, 2025[3].

Key Developments

US pushes Donbas 'free economic zone'; Ukraine to withdraw even from uncontrolled parts[3].
Zelensky 'can't accept it, but can't reject Washington,' opts for referendum[3].
Coverage in Firstpost's Vantage on December 13, trending December 14[3].

Analysis

Factor	Current Status	Implications
Economic	Free zone aims to stabilize trade	Potential ceasefire economic boost
Political	Zelensky referendum balances US-Russia pressures	Tests Ukrainian unity
Social	Peace talks amid widening conflict	Public vote could shift war narrative

Expert Reactions

Palki Sharma on Vantage: 'Everyone is talking about peace in Ukraine—yet the war keeps widening.'[3]

What's Next

Referendum timeline pending; US proposal details expected post-December 14 discussions[3].