US negotiators suggested that Ukraine might consider giving up its eastern region of Donbas to join NATO, according to President Volodymyr Zelenskiy after peace talks with Russia in Abu Dhabi. This is the first time NATO membership has been linked to territorial concessions in discussions. Zelenskiy mentioned that the Americans raised this question about Ukraine withdrawing from Donbas to join NATO.
Zelenskiy emphasized that Kyiv is not ready to concede territory. However, he stated that if Ukraine received a comprehensive package with security guarantees and funds for rebuilding, he would propose the idea to a national referendum. He also expressed that the war must end before discussing changes to the overall security framework in Europe.
Regarding a humanitarian ceasefire proposed by Putin in Kostiantynivka, Zelenskiy rejected it, stating that it was an attempt by Russia to take the city without direct conflict. He noted that civilians had already evacuated and pointed out that Russia aims to use other frontline settlements, where civilians are trapped, as military targets.
After two days of US-brokered talks, there was no major agreement, but a prisoner exchange involving over 1,000 individuals was agreed upon. The final details of this exchange are still being discussed. Zelenskiy said US peace envoys planned to bring up an energy ceasefire with Putin, but there has been no sign of progress. Additionally, it was mentioned that Europe would participate in future peace talks, and at a summit in Ireland, EU leaders decided on a team comprising major military powers to represent Europe in these negotiations.
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With information from Reuters
