this is being pressured to do austerity

minsk 1 and 2 peace agreements, Both broken by Russia(n backed forces). And exactly those forces also made sure that people can't vote.

Pretty sure the ceasefire violations were a 'both sides' thing, but for most of this fighting one side (Ukraine) has has a distinct advantage in terms of weaponry, considering the irregular forces.

The west was using those peace agreements to build up forces, Merkel literally admitted that on camera.