Zelensky Reveals US Proposed Donbas Withdrawal for NATO Membership

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said US negotiators raised the possibility of Ukraine withdrawing from the Donbas region in exchange for NATO membership, following the latest peace talks with Russia in Abu Dhabi, according to Reuters. Zelensky reiterated that Kyiv is unwilling to retreat from Ukrainian territory. He stated that if Ukraine received a security package including guarantees, a strong funded army, and reconstruction funds, he would submit the matter to a referendum, saying he lacks the right to decide alone. Zelensky called Russia's attempt to alter Europe's security architecture "dangerous," asserting that the EU and NATO represent the continent's only true security. He noted this was the first time the Donbas-for-NATO question had been raised, adding that Putin's signals make the discussion extremely difficult.