US floated idea of Ukraine ceding Donbas for NATO membership, Zelenskiy says

US negotiators discussed the possibility of Ukraine ceding the eastern region of Donbas in exchange for NATO membership, according to President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. This idea was raised during the latest round of peace talks with Russia in Abu Dhabi, marking the first time the concept was presented. Zelenskiy stated that this proposal came from the US, as they inquired about the potential withdrawal of Ukraine from Donbas if it were to join NATO.

This indicates that NATO's inclusion in the agenda has gained momentum. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has consistently warned that Ukraine's NATO membership would be unacceptable, citing it as a reason for Russia's invasion in 2022. Zelenskiy emphasized that his nation is not prepared to cede territory but would consider the proposal if Ukraine received a comprehensive package, including security guarantees, a strong and well-funded army, and funds for rebuilding.

He firmly rejected the idea of a "peace" framework talk before ending the conflict, stating that war cessation must be the first priority. US envoy Jared Kushner reported that both sides considered their positions maximalist but acknowledged that compromises would be necessary for peace. He also dismissed Putin's suggestion for a humanitarian ceasefire in Kostiantynivka, stating that Moscow's inability to capture the city by force led to this proposal.

Ukraine has proposed a list of other frontline settlements for a potential humanitarian truce, though Russia prefers to use them as military objectives. While a prisoner exchange involving over 1,000 people was agreed upon, no breakthrough was achieved in other areas, and Putin personally opposes a ceasefire. Zelenskiy met with Kushner and Steve Witkoff in Ireland, where they discussed the inclusion of Europe in the forthcoming peace talks.