Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has confirmed that Kyiv is still willing to move forward with a minerals agreement with the United States, despite a recent dispute with former US President Donald Trump.
Speaking to reporters at London Stansted Airport after a significant summit with European leaders, Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine remains committed to signing the deal, which was postponed due to last week’s heated exchange with Trump.
“Our policy is to move forward, regardless of past events. We are open to cooperation. Since we had already agreed to sign the deal, we were ready to do so,” he stated through a translator. “Honestly, I believe the United States is also prepared.”
Zelenskyy expressed optimism that diplomatic relations with Trump could be restored, dismissing speculation that Washington might withdraw its support for Kyiv.
“I believe our relationship will continue because it goes beyond a specific moment,” he said. “We fully expect continued assistance from the United States.”
He warned that halting US aid would only serve Russia’s interests, adding, “Stopping this support would only benefit [Russian President Vladimir] Putin. That’s why I believe the United States and world leaders who stand for peace and stability will not allow that to happen.”
Dispute Over Minerals Agreement
The minerals deal was supposed to be finalized last week but was derailed following a tense televised discussion at the White House. During the exchange, Zelenskyy rejected US Vice President JD Vance’s suggestion for renewed diplomacy, asserting that Ukraine could not compromise its sovereignty.
In response, Trump and Vance criticized Zelenskyy, accusing him of being ungrateful for US support and overestimating Ukraine’s bargaining position. Following the confrontation, Trump canceled the remainder of Zelenskyy’s meetings in Washington, including the signing ceremony for the minerals deal.
Trump later stated that Zelenskyy could return “when he is ready for peace.” Some Republican lawmakers, including Senator Lindsey Graham, suggested that if Zelenskyy was unwilling to negotiate with Trump, he should consider stepping down.
NATO Membership Condition
Zelenskyy dismissed calls for his resignation, calling them “undemocratic.” He stated that he would only step down if Ukraine were granted full membership in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).
His remarks came as European leaders gathered in London to demonstrate their continued support for Ukraine. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the UK and France would form a “coalition of the willing” to create a new peace proposal to present to Trump.
“We are at a critical turning point in history,” Starmer declared at the summit. “This is not the time for endless discussions. It’s time for action, for leadership, and for unity around a plan for a just and lasting peace.”
