Zelensky Seeks to Mend Fences with Trump After Aid Suspension, Offers Mineral Deal

Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky is attempting to repair relations with US President Donald Trump after a tumultuous week that saw Washington suspend military aid to Kyiv, as per Al Jazeera.

Zelensky, in a statement released Tuesday, described his recent clash with Trump as “regrettable” and signaled a willingness to compromise to secure a lasting peace in Ukraine.

The aid suspension, which occurred shortly after Zelensky’s visit to the White House, which was marred by acrimony.

“Our meeting in Washington, at the White House on Friday, did not go the way it was supposed to be. It is regrettable that it happened this way. It is time to make things right,” Zelensky posted on X. “We do really value how much America has done to help Ukraine maintain its sovereignty and independence.”

The potential for a deal granting US companies access to Ukraine’s mineral resources has emerged as a possible avenue for reconciliation. Trump suggested on Monday that such an agreement, intended to be signed during Zelensky’s visit, remains viable. Vice President JD Vance echoed this sentiment in an interview on Fox News.

“If you want real security guarantees… the very best security guarantee is to give Americans economic upside in the future of Ukraine,” Vance said.

Zelensky, addressing this prospect directly, affirmed his readiness to sign an agreement “any time and in any convenient format.”

The US aid pause has also placed increased pressure on European allies. Leaders from the UK and France, who both visited the White House last week, have emphasized their commitment to Ukraine.

In response, Europe is accelerating efforts to bolster its own defense capabilities. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen unveiled proposals on Tuesday to significantly increase EU defense spending, potentially mobilizing up to €800 billion ($840 billion). An emergency EU summit is scheduled for Thursday to discuss the proposed defense package.

Meanwhile, the Kremlin has hailed the suspension of US military aid as a positive step towards peace, pending confirmation of the decision by the Trump administration.