I think that the plans for annexation of Donbas (if there were such plans whatsoever) are scrapped, it's the peaceful federalization which Moscow is trying to push through in near future. But I do agree that this message, perhaps, hasn't been made loud and clear enough to Russian ethnic minority in the east Ukraine, where many are still dreaming about joining Russia. This is indeed a potentially hazardous situation: Russia cannot afford the price of absorbing these regions but if Ukrainians do something stupid, like launching massive attack on rebels, most likely followed by dozens or hundreds of dead, Putin will have no choice but to react and use army to protect his people. It's the worst case scenario for everyone there and I truly hope that all sides are going to be smart enough to avoid it at all costs.