One Decision In Brief: What Ukraine Is Sacrificing for Peace
Dec 16, 2025
Delve into the recent US talks with Ukraine's Zelensky, where NATO membership is off the table and new security guarantees are under scrutiny. Discover the significant hurdle over the Donbass territory and the implications of Western military aid falling short. Explore Ukraine's tactical softening of rhetoric to gain support and the trust deficits stemming from past guarantees. The hosts also discuss the influence of Donald Trump on US policy and the unexpected shifts in Switzerland's security stance.
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NATO Off The Table, Guarantees Reframed
- NATO membership has effectively been taken off the table as part of recent talks.
- Security guarantees will instead focus on intelligence support and aerial cover without boots on the ground.
Donbass Territory Is The Deal-Breaker
- The toughest bargaining point remains Ukrainian territory in the Donbass.
- Sir Richard warns this territorial issue could still break any emerging agreement.
Frozen Russian Assets Create Leverage
- European states face a dilemma over frozen Russian assets held in Belgium and France.
- Releasing the funds would breach banking rules and needs security guarantees, exposing hypocrisy among some states.