For the first time, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has suggested he might consider ceding occupied Ukrainian territory to Russia in exchange for NATO membership for the areas under Kyiv’s control.

In an interview with Sky News, Zelenskyy addressed reports that one of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s potential strategies to end the war involved Kyiv ceding land to Russia in return for NATO membership. Zelenskyy emphasized that any such deal must recognize Ukraine’s internationally recognized borders.

“To stop the hot phase of the war, NATO must take under its umbrella the territory of Ukraine we currently control,” Zelenskyy said. “We need to act quickly. For the occupied regions, we could pursue their return diplomatically.”

This marks a shift in Zelenskyy’s stance, as he has previously ruled out conceding any Ukrainian land, including Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014. He insisted that any constitutional move to cede territory would require the consent of the local population.

Zelenskyy clarified that a ceasefire would be necessary to ensure Russian President Vladimir Putin does not seize additional Ukrainian land. He urged NATO to extend immediate protections to the remaining unoccupied territories.

The Ukrainian leader also shared insights into his perspective on working with President-elect Trump. He noted the importance of direct communication with Trump to avoid mixed messages from individuals within his circle.

Zelenskyy said he had a warm and constructive meeting with Trump in September, during which they began laying the groundwork for future discussions. He expressed a willingness to collaborate with the incoming U.S. administration to secure strong support for Ukraine.

This marks the first time Zelenskyy has publicly indicated a potential compromise involving Russian control of Ukrainian land, a significant development in his approach to the ongoing conflict.