US Proposed Trading Donbass Territory for NATO Membership, President Zelensky Revealed

President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed on Saturday, 14 November 2026, that the United States proposed Ukraine cede territories to Russia in exchange for NATO membership. According to Portuguese media, the proposal was made during negotiations in Abu Dhabi involving representatives from Ukraine, Russia, and the United States. The US proposal specifically questioned if Ukraine would withdraw from the Donbass region if it joined NATO.

President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on Friday, 13 November 2026, that this was the first time the issue of territorial concessions for NATO membership was raised. The President noted that he cannot decide alone and must consult the Ukrainian people via referendum if comprehensive security guarantees from NATO and the EU are provided. President Volodymyr Zelensky's proposed security package includes specific guarantees, a strong military with adequate troops and weapons, and a Prosperity Plan for reconstruction.

Background of the Conflict and Regional Claims

The Donbass region remains a central point of contention. Russia claims the annexation of the Donbass, which includes the Donetsk and Lugansk regions. Separatists in the Donbass declared independence in 2022 and requested assistance from Moscow. This follows a history of conflict in the region, as separatists in the Donbass began fighting Kiev with Russian support in 2014.

Ukraine has a formal interest in international security integration, having applied for EU membership and included NATO membership in its Constitution. However, Russia opposes Ukraine's membership in NATO. President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed concerns regarding the current geopolitical landscape, stating that Russia's attempt to change the European security architecture is dangerous and could lead to new wars.

Humanitarian Concerns and Ceasefire Negotiations

Negotiations regarding humanitarian access continue alongside political discussions. President Volodymyr Zelensky rejected a Russian proposal for a localized humanitarian ceasefire in Kostiantynivka, a city in the Donetsk region. According to Portuguese media, President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that the Russian proposal for Kostiantynivka was an attempt to occupy the city.

In addition to the situation in Kostiantynivka, Ukraine has identified seven or eight other frontline locations with trapped civilians to propose a humanitarian truce. While political negotiations continue in Abu Dhabi, European leaders held a summit in Dublin on Friday to discuss the ongoing situation.

Glossary

• NATO — NATO is an organization that countries can join for membership. It is also mentioned in the context of providing security guarantees.
• Donetsk — Donetsk is a region located within the Donbass. It is one of the areas claimed by Russia.
• EU — The EU is an alliance of Mediterranean and Southern European member states. It is also referred to as the European Union.
• Donbass — The Donbass is a region that remains a central point of contention. It includes the Donetsk and Lugansk regions.
• referendum — A referendum is a process used to consult the people on specific issues. For example, it can be used to decide on matters such as abortion legality or the establishment of administrative regions.