US-Ukraine talks over a rare earth minerals deal are said to have broken down after a heated exchange between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The two presidents were scheduled to sign off on a pact allowing the US access to Ukraine's vast stockpiles of rare earth minerals in return for ongoing American military aid in the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
The Oval Office encounter became combative as President Trump charged President Zelensky with having "tremendous hatred" for Russian President Vladimir Putin, which Trump implied was stalling peace talks. Vice President J.D. Vance seconded this, calling on Zelensky to be more respectful of President Trump and the support given by the United States. Things took a dramatic turn when Vance accused Zelensky of campaigning on behalf of former President Joe Biden in the 2024 U.S. presidential elections.
In a post-meeting social media message, President Trump said, "I have decided that President Zelensky is not ready for Peace if America is engaged, because he believes our engagement gives him a great advantage in the negotiations. I don't seek advantage, I seek PEACE." He added that Zelensky "disrespected the United States of America in its revered Oval Office" and finished by saying, "He can return when he is prepared for Peace."
President Zelensky left the White House following the meeting, and there was no indication that the expected minerals deal was signed. The proposed deal had sought to give the U.S. rights to Ukraine's deposits of rare earth minerals and other natural resources as payment for America's assistance to Kyiv's war efforts against Russia.
In the Oval Office conversation, President Trump made it clear that Ukraine has "no cards" to play in the negotiations and ought to be more thankful. Vice President Vance charged Zelensky with being "very disrespectful" and warned that his strategy could risk losing U.S. support. The conflict escalated after President Trump admonished Zelensky that, "You're gambling with World War III, and what you're doing is very disrespectful to the country, this country that's backed you far more than a lot of people say they should have."
The breakdown of the minerals agreement brings uncertainty to the U.S.-Ukraine relationship, especially regarding future assistance and cooperation. Experts opine that an expression of appreciation by President Zelensky might be able to restart negotiations and open the door for renewed partnership talks. Nevertheless, the near future of the agreement is uncertain.
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