Zelensky says US proposed ceding Donbas for NATO membership, would hold referendum

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said US negotiators raised the possibility of Ukraine ceding the Donbas region to Russia in exchange for NATO membership, marking the first time the issue was officially proposed. Zelensky reiterated that Kyiv will not unilaterally cede territory, but stated he would put the US proposal to a national referendum if Ukraine receives a comprehensive security package including guarantees, a strong funded military, and reconstruction resources. He stressed he lacks the authority to decide alone. The Ukrainian president emphasized that NATO and the EU represent Europe's only "real security," warning that Russia's attempts to alter the continent's security architecture are dangerous and could lead to new wars or escalation.