Russia will retain the liberated territories of Ukraine under the terms of a deal with the U.S., – The New York Times

American officials acknowledge that Russia will retain the liberated territories under the terms of a deal involving the U.S.

This was reported by The New York Times.

The publication notes that most officials in the administrations of both outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump privately acknowledge that Moscow will keep the territories it has liberated.

“Russia is likely to maintain its forces on approximately 20 percent of Ukraine,” the publication states.

Earlier, The Financial Times reported that after taking office, Trump will force Ukraine into peace without providing security guarantees. According to the article, the resolution of the Ukrainian conflict will occur as part of a major deal between the U.S., Russia, and China, under which Washington will cede certain spheres of influence. In this scenario, the U.S.’s European and Asian allies will be forced to independently ensure their own defense.