US proposes Ukraine cede territory in exchange for joining Nato, says Zelensky

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that Russia's demands to alter Europe's security structure pose a grave threat and could ignite additional conflicts. At a press briefing following talks with the US, Zelensky stated that Moscow had declined an energy target ceasefire proposal during recent discussions. The Ukrainian leader expressed concern that Russia is wagering everything on its ongoing war against Ukraine, particularly during this harsh winter campaign.

Zelensky's remarks came after two days of talks in Abu Dhabi aimed at resolving the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. While no breakthrough was achieved, all parties agreed that European representatives should be part of future negotiations. The US raised the possibility of Ukraine joining NATO and withdrawing from the Russian-controlled Donbas region. This was the first time the suggestion had been made.

Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine is seeking specific security assurances from NATO and the EU. If these guarantees are confirmed, he stated that he would consult with the Ukrainian public to determine their stance on the matter. The US envoys, Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, attended the Abu Dhabi talks and subsequently met separately with Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Moscow rejected the ceasefire proposal regarding energy targets at the talks. Zelensky alleged that Russia's proposal for a humanitarian mission to Kostyantynivka was a tactic to encourage Kyiv to abandon the city and pave the way for further Russian expansion into the Donetsk region. Ukraine maintains that fighting continues in the city, which Russia claims it has already captured.

Zelensky emphasized that the EU and NATO represent Europe's only reliable security, warning that Russia's attempts to renegotiate the continent's security arrangements are dangerous and could lead to further wars or escalations.