Trump Pushes for Ukraine-Russia Talks, Seeks Mineral Deal Amidst Tensions

President Trump urged Presidents Zelenskyy and Putin to meet for peace talks on February 21, 2025. This follows a period of strained relations between Washington and Kyiv, marked by Trump's criticism of Zelenskyy and Ukraine's exclusion from U.S.-Russia discussions. Trump also expressed hope for a swift agreement granting the U.S. preferential access to Ukraine's mineral deposits, potentially compensating for past aid. Zelenskyy confirmed ongoing negotiations for a bilateral agreement, seeking a "fair result." The mineral deal has been a point of contention, with Trump previously accusing Zelenskyy of being a "dictator" and blaming Ukraine for the war. Meanwhile, Macron pledged to confront Trump on his approach to Putin. A U.S. draft resolution at the UN omits references to Ukraine's territorial integrity and avoids criticizing Russia, drawing concern from some observers. Retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, Trump's special envoy, visited Kyiv for talks, aiming to ease tensions.