Zelensky says US floated NATO membership in exchange for Donbas

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed that US officials raised the possibility of Ukraine joining NATO in exchange for relinquishing the Donbas region, marking the first time such a proposal was made. Zelensky stated he would consult Ukrainian society before deciding on any territorial concession, emphasizing he lacks authority to decide alone. He also noted Russia rejected a proposed energy ceasefire during US-mediated talks in Abu Dhabi. Zelensky warned Moscow is betting on winter military operations and urged US Congress to approve sanctions and weapons packages, arguing this pressure would motivate Putin toward de-escalation. He called NATO and EU membership Europe's only genuine security guarantee.