On Tuesday, former President Donald Trump expressed appreciation for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s willingness to finalize a minerals deal with the U.S. and engage in peace talks under his leadership. Speaking before Congress, Trump stated that Zelenskiy conveyed this stance in a letter earlier that day. Zelenskiy also posted on X, affirming Ukraine’s readiness to sign the deal and pursue peace, while calling last week’s tense Oval Office meeting—after which the agreement was delayed—”regrettable.”
According to sources familiar with the matter, the Trump administration and Ukraine are preparing to sign the minerals deal. Trump had reportedly hoped to announce the agreement during his congressional address, though it remained unsigned and subject to change. His remarks, however, suggested progress.
“Earlier today, I received an important letter from President Zelenskiy,” Trump said. He quoted Zelenskiy as stating that Ukraine was prepared to negotiate for lasting peace and valued U.S. support in maintaining its sovereignty. Zelenskiy also expressed Ukraine’s readiness to sign the minerals and security agreement at a convenient time.
Trump noted that discussions with Russia had yielded “strong signals” that they were open to peace. He emphasized that the minerals deal would give the U.S. a financial stake in Ukraine’s future, viewing it as a way to recoup part of the significant financial and military aid provided to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion.
Last week, tensions flared when Zelenskiy was dismissed from the White House after a heated exchange with Trump and his vice president. They criticized him for requesting additional aid in front of the media instead of expressing gratitude for U.S. support.
