Trump Expects Zelenskyy to Finalise US Minerals Deal Despite Tensions

US President Donald Trump expressed confidence that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy would eventually agree to a natural resources deal with the United States, despite their earlier strained meeting in the White House on February 28.

    Sign up for the Nigerian Mining Weekly Newsletter
    Get the latest news from the Nigerian solid minerals and mining industry delivered to your inbox.

    In an interview on Fox News’ Sunday Morning Futures, Trump accused Zelenskyy of being ungrateful and taking advantage of the Biden administration’s military aid, saying the Ukrainian president “took money out of this country like candy from a baby.” Trump restated that the proposed minerals agreement represents a crucial economic commitment to Ukraine’s security, which he had pushed during his presidency.

    Trump indicated that, despite the breakdown in talks, he believed Zelenskyy would ultimately come around, stating, “I think it’ll happen.”

    Trump Expects Zelenskyy to Finalise US Minerals Deal Despite Tensions

    The initial deal was stymied during a tense exchange between Trump and Zelenskyy in February, which also interrupted Trump’s diplomatic efforts toward a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia. Following intense pressure from the US for Ukraine to stop fighting, talks resumed this week between Ukrainian and US officials in Saudi Arabia.

    When asked about Ukraine’s survival as an independent country, Trump acknowledged the uncertainty, saying that Ukraine “may not survive anyway.” However, he reiterated his stance that the conflict with Russia is complicated, adding, “It takes two.”

    Since their meeting, Trump had suspended military and intelligence assistance to Ukraine in an effort to force Zelenskyy into agreeing to a truce, which would allow for peace negotiations to end the Russian invasion.

    Zelenskyy has shown some willingness to consider a ceasefire, stating on Thursday that he would be open to halting hostilities if Russia agreed to cease airstrikes and naval operations.

      Sign up for the Nigerian Mining Weekly Newsletter
      Get the latest news from the Nigerian solid minerals and mining industry delivered to your inbox.

      Leave a Reply

      Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

      You May Also Like

      Illegal Mining: Zamfara Government Denies Paying Bandit Leaders 1 Billion Naira

      The Governor of Zamfara state has denied any involvement in allegations circulating…

      Katsina Mining and Exploration Company to Engage German Consultants

      The Katsina State Government, led by Malam Dikko Umaru Radda is preparing…

      Dele Alake Commends ANRML for Significant Foreign Investment in Mining Sector

      The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, commended African Natural…

      South Africa’s Mining Output Declines by 2.4% in December

      South Africa’s mining sector recorded a 2.4% year-on-year decline in December 2024,…