Zelensky: US asked whether Ukraine would leave Donbas in exchange for NATO membership
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the United States has for the first time floated the idea of Ukraine giving up part of its territory to Russia in return for NATO admission. He stressed he cannot make such a decision alone.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed on 14 November that US representatives asked Ukraine whether it would be ready to give up part of its territory to Russia in exchange for joining NATO, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. The matter is significant because it touches on Ukraine's territorial integrity and the possible terms for ending the war that Russia launched against it.
Zelensky made the remarks to journalists on Friday, but their publication was embargoed until Saturday. According to him, the Americans asked whether Ukraine would withdraw from Donbas if it were admitted to NATO. The president noted that this was the first time such an offer had been voiced.
Talks on security guarantees
Zelensky said Kyiv is negotiating specific security guarantees from NATO and the European Union (EU). If Western countries approve them, he said he would ask the Ukrainian public whether to accept them.
"I have no right to make such a decision on my own," Zelensky stressed.
Warning about a new security architecture
The president also stated that the only security in Europe is the EU and NATO. He warned that engaging in discussions with Russia about a new security architecture for the continent is dangerous, as it would only lead to new wars.
