Trump says Ukraine ready for talks with Russia, willing to sign mineral deal
US President Donald Trump speaks during an address to a joint session of Congress at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, on March 4, 2025 (AFP Photo)
U.S. President Donald Trump announced Tuesday that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had expressed readiness for negotiations with Russia and was prepared to finalize a minerals agreement with the United States.
The remarks came during Trump’s address to Congress, days after a tense White House meeting between the two leaders.
Zelenskyy expresses willingness for peace talks
Reading from what he described as a letter from Zelenskyy, Trump stated: “Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer. Nobody wants peace more than the Ukrainians.”
Zelenskyy’s message also emphasized appreciation for U.S. assistance. “We do really value how much America has done to help Ukraine maintain its sovereignty and independence,” Trump read from the letter.
The statement follows a public fallout between the two leaders, including a heated exchange in the Oval Office where U.S. Vice President JD Vance accused Zelenskyy of being ungrateful for U.S. aid. Trump, who has called for an end to the war, has faced criticism for pausing military assistance to Ukraine earlier this week.
Minerals agreement under consideration
Trump also revealed that Ukraine was prepared to sign a minerals and security deal with the United States, stating: “Regarding the agreement on minerals and security, Ukraine is ready to sign it at any time that is convenient for you.”
The proposed agreement, which has been in discussion for months, aims to grant the U.S. strategic access to Ukraine’s mineral resources.
Zelenskyy had initially left the White House without finalizing the deal, following last week’s contentious meeting.
International reactions and concerns
Trump’s stance on Ukraine has drawn sharp reactions globally. European allies have expressed concerns over the U.S. exclusion of the European Union from discussions with Russia, fearing that any potential agreement could favor Moscow’s terms.
The Kremlin welcomed Trump’s decision to halt military aid, with Russian spokesman Dmitry Peskov stating that it “could push the Kyiv regime to a peace process.”
Meanwhile, in Ukraine, many viewed Trump’s approach as a setback. “It’s like a stab in the back,” a Kyiv resident told AFP. Military volunteers also voiced frustration, accusing Trump of pressuring Ukraine into concessions.
Poland’s government noted that the U.S. decision was made without consulting NATO allies, and logistical disruptions were already affecting arms shipments.
French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou stated that U.S. military aid trains were being halted from reaching Ukraine.
Future of US-Ukraine relations
Zelenskyy, in a social media statement posted earlier Tuesday, sought to mend ties with Washington, calling last week’s confrontation “regrettable” and expressing a desire “to make things right.” He reiterated Ukraine’s commitment to signing the minerals deal “at any time and in any convenient format.”
Despite Trump’s engagement in “serious discussions with Russia,” he has yet to outline a detailed plan for ending the war. While he suggested that Russia was also ready for peace, critics warn that U.S. policy shifts could embolden Moscow.
