Zelensky: Ceding Donbas in exchange for security will not stop Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky categorically rejected the concept of transferring Ukrainian territories to the Russian Federation in exchange for security promises. In his view, such a step would not guarantee the end of the war, as there is no reason to believe that Volodymyr Putin would limit himself to controlling Donbas.

History of broken promises

Commenting on possible peace initiatives, the head of state called the idea of renouncing part of the state territory for the sake of peace abstract. He explained his position by noting that the goals publicly declared by Moscow have repeatedly differed from its actual actions.

Zelensky recalled that Putin had previously stated a focus on Donbas, but subsequently Russian troops attempted to occupy the capital of Ukraine. The President also drew attention to the fact that the Russian authorities claimed to be protecting the Russian-speaking population, while Russian military personnel were torturing hundreds and thousands of people in Bucha and other settlements.

«Тож ішлося не про російськомовних людей» ("So it was not about Russian-speaking people"), Zelensky emphasised.

Details of negotiations with the American side

In the interview with DR Nyheder, the President shared details of previous consultations. The American side asked whether Ukraine was ready to trade Donbas for security guarantees. In response, Zelensky asked for clarification on the nature of these guarantees, specifically whether they envisage full NATO membership.

The Americans explained that the discussion was not about joining the Alliance, but about a mechanism similar to it. The head of state questioned such a proposal, arguing that if Ukraine is required to take a clear position on Donbas, then security guarantees must also be concrete, not just "similar to NATO".

He also expressed concern about what would happen if Ukraine agreed to cede Donbas but received security guarantees without membership in the Alliance.

Experience of renouncing nuclear weapons

Zelensky recalled that Ukraine renounced nuclear weapons, after which Russia hindered its European integration and accession to NATO, subsequently occupying Ukrainian territories.

The President emphasised that he does not support the proliferation of nuclear weapons and believes the world would be better off without them. At the same time, he highlighted Ukraine's experience, which, in his opinion, does not allow one to rely on Russian promises.

«Ніхто не вірить, що Путін зупиниться, якщо ми залишимо Донбас. Він зробить паузу. А потім повернеться через рік, два чи п’ять років. І хто буде винен?» ("No one believes that Putin will stop if we leave Donbas. He will take a pause. And then he will return in one, two or five years. And who will be to blame?"), the President stated.