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

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that United States negotiators raised the possibility of Ukraine withdrawing from its eastern Donbas region in exchange for joining NATO. According to Punch Nigeria and the Jerusalem Post, this occurred following two days of US-brokered peace talks between Russian and Ukrainian delegations in Abu Dhabi. Zelensky noted this was the first time Washington had presented this specific idea.

Zelensky indicated that any decision regarding territorial concessions would require the consent of the Ukrainian people. The Jerusalem Post reports that if a comprehensive security package were provided—including security guarantees, a well-funded army, and reconstruction funds—he would put the question to a referendum. Such a package would need confirmation from the United States and NATO allies before being presented to voters. Zelensky also ruled out legally recognizing any occupied Ukrainian territory as Russian.

Le Monde English reported that following the meetings with European leaders, Zelensky added that Russia has rejected an energy target ceasefire this week and is betting on its winter campaign.

Brief written by urgent.news from Le Monde English, Punch Nigeria, Jerusalem Post, Punch, Ukrinform - Politics — 5 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.