Zelenskyy says he’s ‘ready to sign the minerals agreement’ – but needs another guarantee from Trump
ArchiveFirst published March 7, 2025. It may not reflect later developments.
Ukraine’s Position
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed Ukraine is ready to sign the U.S.-Ukraine minerals agreement, calling it a step toward security. “We are ready to sign the minerals agreement, and it will be the first step toward security guarantees,” he said. The deal requires Ukraine to allocate 50% of future mineral proceeds to a U.S.-managed fund for reconstruction.
Tense Meeting with Trump
During a heated White House meeting, Trump told Zelenskyy, “You either make a deal or we are out,” and criticized him: “You have to be thankful. Your people are dying.” Vice President J.D. Vance questioned if Zelenskyy had expressed enough gratitude for U.S. aid.
Fox News Interview
Fox’s Bret Baier asked, “Do you think you owe an apology to President Trump?” Zelenskyy avoided answering directly, saying, “We are strategic partners… We have to be honest and direct.”
Security Guarantees Key
Zelenskyy insists security guarantees must be included: “If we don’t get security guarantees, we won’t have a ceasefire.” Trump responded, “I want PEACE… He can come back when he is ready for Peace.”
