The Donetsk People’s Republic, the unrecognized and ill-defined eastern area of Ukraine that declared its independence and seized government buildings in April 2014, has tentatively supported a Russian-led mediation between itself and Ukraine in the wake of Ukraine President Poroshenko’s statement that military activities in the area may be halted.

Denis Pushkin, chairman of the Supreme Council of the Donetsk People's Republic, in fact stated that they would be willing to engage with Ukraine only if the mediation was led by and conducted by Russia.

The Donetsk People’s Republic has demanded the creation of a humanitarian corridor so food and medical supplies can pass through the Ukrainian military presence unharmed, the exchange of prisoners of war between the two sides, and a withdrawal of troops it considers illegally on its territory.  However, it is unclear how much control the self-proclaimed government actually has over the area beyond the government facilities the group has seized, and the new country – formally known as the Federal State of New Russia – has not been recognized internationally.  Kiev maintains the region is still under Ukrainian rule.

Mr. Pushkin has rejected any direct talks with Kiev, insisting that the military activities conducted by the army have soured relations beyond any point where negotiation would be possible, hence the insistence on Russia’s involvement.  Many suspect that Russia is largely behind the independence movement of the region and the successful referendum conducted some weeks ago declaring independence from Ukraine.