Recent tripartite talks among the US, Russia, and Ukraine in Geneva involved discussions about the potential establishment of a 40-kilometer free economic zone in Donbas, purportedly under the guidance of US President Donald Trump's Peace Council. While the exact details of the negotiations remain undisclosed, sources indicate that the dialogue also included talks of the withdrawal of armed forces and the creation of a buffer zone.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed various options for troop withdrawal during a meeting with coalition representatives at the Munich Security Conference. These options included a synchronized withdrawal of forces to 40 kilometers away from the contact line. Sources within European political circles have indicated that although this scenario has been discussed, the feasibility of implementing such a plan remains uncertain.

Despite the ongoing discussions, there are significant hurdles in envisioning how the economic zone project could take shape. The involvement of Trump's Peace Council adds another layer of complexity, raising questions about international cooperation and the long-term implications for peace in the region. As talks continue, the prospect of an economic zone in Donbas represents a potential shift in the approach to the ongoing conflict, but clarity and commitment from all parties will be essential for progress.