Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has pushed back against US demands for billions of dollars in Ukrainian natural resources and for excluding Ukraine from peace talks with Russia. He also announced plans for a major European summit on Monday, which will focus on military aid and security guarantees.
Zelensky’s comments come as tensions between him and US President Donald Trump have escalated. Trump has questioned Zelensky’s legitimacy and accused him of being a “dictator without elections.” However, Zelensky insists that he is willing to step down if it means peace in Ukraine.
The Ukrainian leader has rejected a new US proposal for a minerals deal, which would require Ukraine to pay the US $500 billion using revenues from its natural resources. He called the sum unrealistic and said that negotiations would continue. However, Zelensky acknowledged that he may ultimately have little choice but to sign the deal if it means securing American support.
The proposed deal includes a 100% loan for Ukraine, where the US would receive $2 in aid for every dollar provided. Zelensky argued that this was not a guarantee against future Russian aggression and pointed out that the presence of American companies in eastern Ukraine before the war did not deter Russia from attacking those territories.
Meanwhile, Russia has launched a massive drone assault on Ukrainian cities overnight, with 267 drones reportedly targeting civilian centers. The Ukrainian Air Force confirmed the attack, but it could not be independently verified.
Zelensky’s announcement of the European summit comes as tensions between Ukraine and Russia remain high. The summit is expected to focus on finding solutions to the ongoing conflict, including military aid and security guarantees.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/23/world/europe/ukraine-trump-mineral-deal.html