Despite the recent public feud between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump, Zelenskyy has announced that a minerals deal between the two countries is ready to be signed.
This comes after a tense meeting between the two leaders at the White House, which ended with Trump canceling the rest of Zelenskyy’s visit.
What Happened at the White House?
The meeting between Zelenskyy and Trump turned sour when Zelenskyy challenged US Vice President JD Vance over his comments on diplomacy.
Trump and Vance then criticized Zelenskyy for not being grateful enough for US support and for overestimating his bargaining position.
The exchange ended with Trump canceling the signing ceremony for the minerals deal and telling Zelenskyy he could return when “he is ready” for peace.
Zelenskyy Speaks Out
Speaking to journalists after a summit with European leaders in London, Zelenskyy expressed confidence that relations with Trump could be salvaged.
“It is our policy to continue despite what happened in the past. We are constructive. If we agreed upon signing it, we were ready to sign it.
And honestly, I believe that the United States is ready as well,” he said. Zelenskyy also emphasized the importance of Ukraine’s independence and freedom, saying “we must be open.
Ukraine is not the biggest country in the world but everyone can see how it fights for its independence and freedom.”
A United Front
The summit in London saw European leaders present a united front in support of Ukraine and its efforts to bring an end to the war with Russia.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced plans to gather a “coalition of the willing” to draw up a peace plan to present to Trump.
Starmer called on European leaders to step up and lead, saying “this is not a moment for more talk. It’s time to act. Time to step up and lead and to unite around a new plan for a just and enduring peace.”
What’s Next?
Despite the setbacks, Zelenskyy remains optimistic about the future of Ukraine-US relations. He expressed confidence that the two countries could work together to achieve a lasting peace.
With the minerals deal still on the table, it remains to be seen whether the two leaders can put their differences aside and work towards a common goal.
One thing is certain, however: Ukraine’s fight for independence and freedom will continue, with or without US support.