Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed readiness to work under Donald Trump\u2019s leadership to achieve peace. Days after their tense Oval Office meeting, Zelensky called the encounter “regrettable” and stressed the need to “make things right.” He outlined the first steps toward ending the war, proposing a prisoner exchange and an immediate truce in air and sea attacks if Russia reciprocates.<\/p>\n

Zelensky also emphasized Ukraine\u2019s commitment to a minerals deal with the U.S., which failed to materialize during his Washington visit. The announcement followed the U.S. decision to pause military aid to Ukraine, prompting concerns about Kyiv\u2019s defense.<\/p>\n

During their White House meeting, Vice President JD Vance accused Zelensky of lacking gratitude for U.S. support. Trump also criticized Zelensky, urging him to show more appreciation. Zelensky later defended his stance in a Fox News interview, thanking Americans for their continued support.<\/p>\n

Trump\u2019s administration had initially planned to sign a deal granting U.S. access to Ukraine\u2019s rare earth minerals, but the fallout from their meeting left the agreement unsigned. Trump told Zelensky to “come back when you’re ready for peace.”<\/p>\n

European leaders, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, backed Zelensky\u2019s commitment to peace. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte urged him to rebuild ties with Trump, emphasizing respect for U.S. contributions.<\/p>\n

In contrast, Russia welcomed the U.S. aid pause, calling it the “best contribution to peace.” Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said halting military supplies could lead to progress.<\/p>\n

Trump has yet to comment on the aid pause but previously criticized Zelensky\u2019s statements. After a summit in the UK, where Zelensky said a peace deal with Russia remained “very, very far away,” Trump slammed his remarks as “the worst statement that could have been made.”<\/p>\n

As tensions persist, Zelensky faces pressure to navigate diplomatic challenges while ensuring Ukraine\u2019s sovereignty and securing international support.<\/p>\n