US proposes Ukraine Donbas withdrawal for NATO membership, Zelenskyy says

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on November 14, 2026, that United States negotiators proposed a potential withdrawal of Ukraine from the eastern Donbas region in exchange for joining NATO. This proposal follows a recent round of talks with Russia that took place in Abu Dhabi. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy maintained that the government in Kyiv has no intention of ceding its territories to Russia.

Details of the US proposal

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that the question of withdrawing from the Donbas region in exchange for NATO membership marks the first time such a question has been posed. The President indicated that NATO membership has returned to the diplomatic agenda following this specific proposal. While the proposal links territorial changes to membership, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine remains focused on its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The current negotiations regarding the future of the Donbas region and Ukraine's aspirations for NATO membership involve complex discussions. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy characterized the current negotiations as extremely difficult for all parties involved. The discussions involve potential territorial concessions in the Donbas region and the long-term security requirements for the Ukrainian state.

Security package and referendum

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated he would hold a referendum on the matter if Ukraine receives a comprehensive security package. This proposed security package would include specific security guarantees for the nation. Additionally, the package would provide a well-funded national army and necessary reconstruction funds to rebuild the country.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy mentioned that Ukraine is currently negotiating specific security guarantees from NATO and the European Union. These negotiations seek to establish a framework for long-term stability and defense. The President's comments highlight the tension between potential territorial concessions and the requirement for robust, guaranteed security measures to protect the Ukrainian population.

Negotiation context and status

The proposal regarding the Donbas region emerged following recent diplomatic efforts in Abu Dhabi. These discussions represent a significant shift in the dialogue regarding the war's conclusion. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has consistently stated that the Ukrainian people must be consulted on matters of such magnitude. By suggesting a referendum, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy indicated that any decision regarding the Donbas region would require direct democratic approval from the Ukrainian citizens.

The diplomatic landscape remains highly complex as Ukraine seeks to balance its territorial claims with the necessity of international security guarantees. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy continues to engage with international partners to secure the future of the nation through both military strength and economic reconstruction. The current negotiations remain ongoing and are described by the President as being exceptionally difficult.

Glossary

• NATO — NATO is an international organization. It is listed as a partner in the context of international organization participation.
• security guarantees — Security guarantees are measures sought to prevent further aggression. They are part of a comprehensive security package intended to establish a framework for long-term stability and defense.
• European Union — The European Union is a supranational institution. It maintains close co-operation and strategic partnerships with countries like Jordan.