‘We Don’t Want Yalta 2.0’: Zelensky Warns Trump’s Russia-Europe Security Deal Could Be ‘Dangerous’

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed concerns on Friday, November 6, that a proposed security agreement between the United States and Russia could be "dangerous" and lead to a division of Europe akin to the Yalta Conference of 1945. Zelensky told CNN’s Jake Tapper, "We don’t want to have Yalta 2.0," emphasizing his nation's desire to avoid being divided by Russia.

This warning came after a meeting between Trump and Russian presidential envoy Kirill Dmitriev, where Trump predicted the deal might extend beyond Ukraine to involve all of Europe.

Zelensky learned about the proposal during a phone call with Kushner and US envoy Steve Witkoff, who were discussing preparations for upcoming US-mediated talks between Ukraine and Russia in Abu Dhabi. His apprehensions arose from the proposal's potential implications for European security and Ukraine's stance on the conflict. Zelensky insisted that negotiations should first concentrate on ending Russia's war and providing security guarantees for Ukraine, before considering broader arrangements between Europe and Russia.

The Ukrainian leader also questioned Russia's role in reshaping European security, noting the Kremlin's reluctance to cease hostilities. Ukraine would support a full ceasefire or limited truce, but Moscow has shown no signs of readiness. Zelensky rejected territorial concessions, stating that Ukraine is not ready to cede Donbas or other occupied territories, and that sovereignty and territorial integrity are non-negotiable principles.

Zelensky criticized Trump's recent comments downplaying Russian attacks, expressing disappointment and emphasizing the importance of strong US support. He defended Ukraine's military response, stating that he does not mourn Russian soldiers killed while occupying Ukrainian territory and attacking civilians, and that Putin bears responsibility for sending them into Ukraine.

The Ukrainian president expressed hope that the Democratic takeover of Congress would strengthen bipartisan support against Russian aggression and territorial concessions. Zelensky emphasized the urgency of additional air defense missiles, as Russia intensifies its attacks on Ukrainian cities and energy infrastructure ahead of winter.

He remained open to meeting with Putin in a neutral location, but ruled out traveling to Moscow. Zelensky expressed confidence in Trump's ability to use his relationship with Putin to push the Kremlin toward negotiations.