Ukraine has proposed a plan to establish a free economic zone in the Donbas region, which is occupied by Russia, and to conclude a ceasefire. The plan was created under the cooperation of the United States and Europe and consists of three parts: ceasefire, establishment of a free economic zone, and the role of the EU and NATO. However, Russia, which claims the Donbas as its own territory, has rejected the possibility of establishing a free economic zone. Russia intends to strengthen its de facto control by holding general elections in September, including the areas it occupies in Ukraine.
