Zelenskyy says a new European security framework floated by US could benefit Putin

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed that the United States had suggested a new security framework for Europe as part of endeavors to cease Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. He cautioned that such discussions might enable Moscow to undermine NATO and redefine the continent’s geographical boundaries.

"In my view, this can be dangerous. This should not be the primary agenda," Zelenskyy stated, emphasizing that such matters should not dominate the agenda. His remarks were withheld until Saturday.

Zelenskyy also disclosed that the United States had inquired for the first time about Ukraine's willingness to relinquish control over parts of the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine, which is currently unoccupied by Russian forces, if Kyiv were to join NATO. He believed that Moscow might be eager to revisit broader issues regarding European security instead of solely concentrating on concluding the four-and-a-half-year-long conflict.

"Russian President Vladimir Putin's aspiration to alter borders in Europe is a fact. I am certain this forms part of his plan for redefining security assurances in Europe," Zelenskyy commented. "This is hazardous because, in my view, it is precisely these kinds of matters that precipitate wars or intensify conflicts."

European authorities have highlighted that decisions concerning the continent’s security must be made by Europeans themselves, warning against permitting Russia to dictate the terms of a new security order or negotiate NATO's forthcoming.