Trump considers NATO-style guarantees for Ukraine as Russia signals openness

U.S. President Donald Trump may offer NATO-like protection for Ukraine, a move that Russia is open to, according to his top foreign policy aide. The suggestion comes ahead of talks in Washington with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders on possible security guarantees.

Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, told CNN on Sunday that Moscow had agreed to consider U.S. guarantees “similar to Article 5” of NATO. The clause treats an attack on one member as an attack on all.

He said the proposal could replace Ukraine’s long-sought NATO membership, something Russian President Vladimir Putin has ruled out.

Progress in Alaska

Witkoff and Secretary of State Marco Rubio were part of Trump’s meeting with Putin in Alaska on Friday. The two U.S. officials said negotiations narrowed key issues, including Ukraine’s borders, alliances, and future security.

Rubio said the talks marked progress but warned a final settlement was not close. “If one side gets everything, that’s surrender,” he told CNN.

Russia’s response

Putin, standing alongside Trump after their three-hour talks, said Moscow was ready to work on a system that ensures Ukraine’s security. Russian officials continue to oppose Western troops in Ukraine but have not dismissed guarantees for Kyiv.

Witkoff also said Russia had signalled readiness to pass a law prohibiting future attempts to seize more Ukrainian territory once a peace deal is reached.

Next steps

Trump, posting on social media, wrote: “BIG PROGRESS ON RUSSIA. STAY TUNED!” without giving details.

Zelenskyy is due in Washington with European leaders on Monday for talks on the possible framework. U.S. officials have discussed draft security details with national security advisers from several European states.

According to sources, proposals on the table include Russia returning small pockets of land while Ukraine cedes fortified areas in the east, with the front lines frozen elsewhere.

Rubio said any deal would require compromise from both sides. He added that if no peace agreement emerges, U.S. sanctions on Russia will remain in place and may be expanded.

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