Zelenskyy discusses US proposal for Donbas withdrawal in exchange for NATO membership

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that US negotiators proposed that Ukraine withdraw from the Donbas region in exchange for NATO membership. The President noted that this specific proposal regarding the withdrawal from the Donbas was raised by the United States for the first time. The Donbas region is a historical, cultural, and industrial area that includes the Ukrainian Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, as well as parts of Russia.

President Zelenskyy indicated that the proposal made him conclude that NATO is back on the agenda. However, the President stated that Ukraine is not prepared to cede its sovereign territory or recognize Russian occupation. He noted that negotiations with Russia have been extremely difficult. Regarding future security, President Zelenskyy identified the European Union and NATO as the only true security for Europe. He characterized attempts by the Kremlin to change the security architecture of the continent as dangerous.

Security Guarantees and Potential Referendum

President Zelenskyy said he would consider putting the territorial issue to a referendum if Ukraine receives a comprehensive security package. According to the President, this proposed security package would include security guarantees, a strong and well-funded Ukrainian military, and reconstruction funds. The President emphasized that the security of the region depends on these elements.

The geopolitical tension remains high as Russia maintains that the presence of another NATO member on its borders would be unacceptable. This stance creates a significant barrier to the proposed security arrangements. While the US proposal suggests a path toward NATO membership through territorial concessions, the Ukrainian leadership has maintained its position on sovereignty.

Recent Negotiations in Abu Dhabi

The discussion regarding peace and security follows recent diplomatic efforts in the Middle East. Peace negotiations were held in Abu Dhabi on November 10 and 11, 2026. According to reports, the Abu Dhabi negotiations concluded without a ceasefire agreement. However, the talks resulted in a prisoner exchange agreement between the parties involved.

The outcome of the Abu Dhabi talks highlights the ongoing complexity of the conflict. While a ceasefire remains elusive, the successful prisoner exchange represents a specific point of progress in the broader diplomatic landscape. The international community continues to monitor these developments closely as the debate over Ukraine's membership in NATO and its territorial integrity remains central to European security architecture.

Glossary

• NATO — NATO is an alliance that provides security support. It is considered by President Zelenskyy to be a source of true security for Europe.
• European Union — The European Union (EU) is an organization that considers the potential accession of states for future enlargement. It is identified by President Zelenskyy as a source of true security for Europe.
• Donbas — The Donbas is a historical, cultural, and industrial area. It includes the Ukrainian Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, as well as parts of Russia.