President Donald Trump announced that he has received a letter from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressing willingness to “come to the negotiating table” in order to negotiate a peace deal in Ukraine. In his address to Congress, Trump expressed appreciation for the letter and emphasized his support for achieving a lasting peace. Zelensky had previously stated his readiness to work under Trump’s “strong leadership” towards peace. This development indicates a decrease in tensions between the two leaders following a fiery meeting in the Oval Office last week.
Trump read excerpts from the letter during his address, which used similar language to a statement posted by Zelensky earlier. Ukraine’s readiness to negotiate a peace deal and Trump’s strong leadership were highlighted. Additionally, Trump mentioned that Zelensky is willing to sign a deal for rare earth minerals with the US. The Ukrainian government has not yet commented on the letter. Trump also mentioned that there have been serious discussions with Russia, indicating Russia’s readiness for peace.
Earlier on Tuesday, Zelensky referred to his meeting with Trump as “regrettable” following the US decision to pause military aid to Kyiv. The meeting was intended to grant the US access to rare earth minerals in Ukraine, but the negotiations ended without the agreement being signed.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cm2jzpn5j8do
