Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the creation of a “security buffer zone” along the Russia-Ukraine border, stating that Russian troops have already begun implementing this plan. The buffer zone aims to enhance security by suppressing enemy firing points. Ukrainian foreign ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi criticized the plan, calling it “aggressive” and emphasizing that it demonstrates Russia’s obstruction of peace efforts.
Key Points about the Russia-Ukraine Border:
– Length: The de jure border spans approximately 1,925.8 kilometers.
– History: Established in 1991 after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, with a treaty signed in 2003.
– Current Status: Due to the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War, the de facto border differs from the legal border recognized by the United Nations.
– Occupied Territories: Russia currently occupies a significant portion of Ukraine, including Crimea, Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia oblasts.
Recent Developments:
– Putin’s announcement comes amid ongoing tensions and conflicts between Russia and Ukraine.
– Ukraine had launched an offensive into Russian border territory last August, which was the first ground invasion of Russia by a foreign power since World War II.
– A prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia is expected to take place, following talks in Turkey.