US Offers Ukraine NATO Membership in Exchange for Territorial Concessions

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the US has offered Ukraine NATO membership in exchange for territorial concessions, a proposal made during peace talks in Abu Dhabi. Zelenskyy stated Kyiv is not ready to cede territory, but would put the question to a referendum if Ukraine receives a comprehensive security package including guarantees, a well-funded army, and reconstruction aid. He said the US asked what would happen if Ukraine joined NATO and withdrew from the Donbas. The proposal marks the first time the US has raised this question, according to Zelenskyy, who spoke to reporters on Friday under embargo until Saturday.