Trump advisor: Ukraine may have to cede territory to Russia
Mike Waltz stated that Kyiv might have to make territorial concessions to Moscow as part of the peace negotiations being discussed with both sides.
Photo: Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 2.0
U.S. National Security Advisor Michael Waltz suggested that Ukraine might have to cede some territories to Russia as part of a potential conflict resolution.
Speaking on Fox News, he confirmed the host's assumption that Kyiv is unlikely to join NATO and that Donbas or other regions with a high Russian-speaking population might be transferred to Moscow.
According to him, Washington is negotiating with both sides.
“We are discussing these matters with both Ukrainian and Russian colleagues,” Waltz stated.
He emphasized that the U.S. is actively engaged in the peace process and seeks to end the conflict.
The advisor highlighted former President Donald Trump’s role in the negotiations, calling him the main mediator determined to end the war.
Also, after the G7 summit in Canada, Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the U.S. has not changed its support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity. He affirmed that Washington has never recognized Russia’s right to seize Ukraine.
Rubio stressed that a military solution to the conflict is impossible and that negotiations are the only way forward. He also noted that compromises are inevitable, but their specifics still need to be worked out, expressing cautious optimism about a 30-day ceasefire.
The G7 reaffirmed its support for Ukraine and called on Russia to reciprocate.
Earlier, the U.S. and Ukraine held talks in Saudi Arabia and agreed to a 30-day ceasefire, provided Russia takes a similar step.
The U.S. is also resuming military support for Ukraine, including intelligence sharing. The meeting addressed prisoner exchanges, the release of civilians, and the return of deported children.
An agreement was reached on the development of Ukraine’s mineral resources. Discussions on long-term security will continue.
Later, Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed his readiness for peace but is awaiting Russia’s response. Trump stated that the decision is up to the Kremlin, and negotiations with Moscow are expected in the coming days.