Zelensky ready to cede Ukrainian territory to Russia for first time

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky indicated a willingness to temporarily cede territory to Russia to end the war. He suggested Ukraine could accept a "Nato umbrella" for the areas still under its control. This would allow for a possible diplomatic negotiation for the return of eastern territories currently held by Russia after a ceasefire.

Zelensky emphasized the urgency, stating, “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 clarified that full Nato membership, which could deter future Russian invasions, has been rejected by Putin as part of any peace deal. Zelensky ruled out ceding all territory for full membership but acknowledged that he hasn't received any offers regarding partial membership.