Political scientist Carlo Masala warns that ceding Donbas to Russia would give Moscow a significant strategic advantage in possible future conflicts with Ukraine.

Carlo Masala, a professor at the Bundeswehr University of Munich, emphasized that if Russia took control of Donbas, it would gain a strong strategic position in the face of any future attack on Ukraine. Against this backdrop, Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelensky will face pressure in his meeting with Donald Trump, who may suggest ceding Donbas as a peace solution. Masala also warned that initial talks between US and Ukrainian officials could lead to concessions from Zelenski, leaving Europe in a difficult position. Ukraine has invested heavily in defending Donbas, and Russia's complete capture of the region could take years.