Pulling out of Donbas would legitimize Russian conquest — Serhiy Harmash

“If we voluntarily withdraw our forces, it will mean that Ukraine de facto and de jure legalizes the annexation of this territory to the Russian Federation, that is, it recognizes this territory as Russian,” Harmash said.

Harmash said he did not know how long Ukraine could hold the Donbas, though he had heard from military personnel that it might be possible for about a year and a half. He warned, however, that a voluntary withdrawal agreed to under Moscow’s terms would be unacceptable because it would legitimize what Russia has done and close off the possibility of regaining the territory diplomatically.

“That would mean recognizing, legitimizing the occupation, not just the occupation but the annexation of this territory, and recognizing it as Russian,” he said. “So it would forever close the possibility for us to later return this territory by diplomatic means.”

Harmash said Russian dictator Vladimir Putin’s chief aim in demanding a withdrawal is to legitimize the seizure and create a precedent that could be applied to Crimea and other occupied areas.

“It would become an argument in any negotiations: ‘You pulled your troops out, so you recognized that this is Russian territory; you cannot demand its return,” he said.

“That would completely undermine the thesis of internationally recognized borders and territorial integrity. For me, the political significance of such a step is more important. For Russia, I believe, that is the main goal — because it would legalize its actions in Ukraine forever.”