Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has, for the first time, suggested he is open to temporarily ceding territory to Russia in exchange for securing a NATO-backed protective framework for the areas still under Ukrainian control. His remarks represent a significant shift in Kyiv’s stance as he seeks a path to end the ongoing war.
In an interview with Sky News, Zelensky stated, “If we want to stop the hot stage of the war, we should take under [the] NATO umbrella the territory of Ukraine that we have under our control.” He elaborated that such a move should be executed quickly and added, “Then Ukraine can get back the other part of its territory diplomatically.”
Zelensky indicated that after an initial ceasefire agreement, diplomatic efforts would be pursued to reclaim territories in eastern Ukraine currently occupied by Russia. This marks a departure from Ukraine’s earlier position of fighting until its internationally recognized borders, including Crimea and the four regions annexed by Russia in 2022, were restored.
This pivot in policy comes as international dynamics evolve. Former U.S. President Donald Trump is preparing to assume office, promising to end the war on his “first day” in power. Simultaneously, European support for a peace agreement is reportedly growing.
Trump’s Influence on Peace Efforts
Trump’s team has floated potential plans for a peace deal that would freeze the current front lines in place. Under this proposal, Ukraine would pause its NATO membership ambitions for two decades while receiving substantial U.S. military support to deter further Russian aggression.
Zelensky hinted that his proposal for a “NATO umbrella” might not equate to full NATO membership, a prospect Russian President Vladimir Putin has firmly rejected. Instead, it could involve individual security commitments from NATO members such as the United States, Britain, France, and Germany.
When asked whether Ukraine would consider surrendering territory in exchange for NATO membership, Zelensky clarified, “No one has offered us to be in NATO with just one part or another part of Ukraine.” He added that it “could be possible, but no one offered.”
However, Zelensky expressed openness to ceding Russian-occupied areas in exchange for NATO guarantees over the rest of Ukraine. His comments suggest a pragmatic approach as international negotiations gain momentum.
Growing Support for Multinational Peacekeeping
The impending inauguration of Trump on January 20 is expected to hasten discussions about ending the war. Reports indicate that Trump is considering a proposal for an 800-mile buffer zone between Ukrainian and Russian forces, potentially enforced by European and British troops.
Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has weighed in, advocating for European peacekeeping forces to monitor a potential ceasefire line. Speaking to The Telegraph, Johnson said, “I don’t think we should be sending in combat troops to take on the Russians. But I think as part of the solution, as part of the end state, you’re going to want to have multinational European peacekeeping forces monitoring the border [and] helping the Ukrainians.”
Johnson emphasized that Western nations must provide clear security guarantees to Ukraine as part of any peace agreement, ensuring Russia cannot regroup and launch renewed attacks in the future. He added, “I cannot see that such a European operation could possibly happen without the British.”
The Risks and Conditions of a Ceasefire
In his interview, Zelensky underscored the importance of ensuring that any ceasefire agreement prevents future Russian aggression. Switching to English in the latter part of the conversation, he revealed that various nations had unofficially proposed ceasefire agreements. “A lot of different countries proposed a ceasefire,” he said. “The question is, ceasefire where?”
Zelensky emphasized the necessity of NATO guarantees to secure lasting peace. “We need [NATO protection] very much, otherwise [Putin] will come back,” he said. Highlighting the danger of a fragile ceasefire, he posed the critical question, “How are we going to go to a ceasefire? So for us, it’svery dangerous.”
The Ukrainian president’s shift in stance reflects growing international pressure and the complex calculations surrounding the war. By linking the possibility of territorial concessions to NATO-backed security, Zelensky signals his willingness to explore solutions that balance immediate peace with long-term national sovereignty.
As negotiations continue to unfold, Zelensky’s approach may play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of the conflict and the future of Ukraine.
