US proposed Ukraine cede east for NATO entry, Zelenskyy reveals

Reuters reported that the US negotiation team proposed Ukraine withdraw from its eastern territories in exchange for NATO membership, according to Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy revealed this on November 14, stating he was asked whether Ukraine could pull troops from the Donbas region if it joined NATO. Zelenskyy reiterated his stance against territorial compromise but indicated he would consider putting the proposal to a national referendum if it secured reliable security guarantees and support. The New York Times reported Russia again demanded NATO withdraw its forces from Eastern European countries during trilateral talks this month. No progress toward mutual agreement is expected, as both sides remain entrenched in their positions. The proposal marks the first time the US has formally suggested such a territorial concession in exchange for NATO membership.