Volodymyr Zelensky has called on the US to convince “sceptics” in Europe that Ukraine should be invited to join Nato. For the first time the Ukrainian president indicated that Kyiv could accept Russian control over some of its territory in order to end the “hot phase of the war”, and on the condition that Ukraine joins Nato.

In further remarks to Sky News, the UK’s former representative to Nato, Sir Adam Thomson, said Mr Zelensky appeared to be preparing domestic audiences for compromises, while “making opening moves” in a likely extended negotiation with Mr Trump over which line to take with the Kremlin.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy reiterated his new subdued stance in another interview, stating that the Russia-Ukraine war needs to end and Kyiv was willing to give up territory to Russia in order to reach a ceasefire agreement with Moscow.