White House officials have advised Ukraine to cease its criticism of Donald Trump and accept a deal offering the US $500bn worth of Ukrainian mineral resources. The US national security adviser, Mike Waltz, urged President Zelenskyy to reconsider the deal and tone down his criticism of Trump’s approach to peace talks with Russia. Waltz also claimed that Ukraine’s stance was a mistake, given the US’s support for Ukraine.
Trump has expressed frustration with Zelenskyy, calling him a “dictator” for refusing to hold elections and blaming Ukraine for the war. Elon Musk also attacked Zelenskyy, claiming that Ukrainians despise their president and accusing him of corruption.
Amid these tensions, Trump’s special envoy to Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, canceled a press conference in Kyiv, signaling a shift in US diplomacy. Zelenskyy responded, reaffirming his country’s gratitude for US support despite the criticism. Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance expressed hope that peace talks with Russia are progressing, with Trump’s leadership seen as key to ending the conflict.
The situation illustrates a growing divide in US-Ukraine relations, with increasing diplomatic pressure on Zelenskyy.
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US Officials Urge Ukraine to Sign $500bn Deal: White House officials have advised Ukraine to stop criticizing Donald Trump and sign a deal granting the US half of the country’s mineral wealth.
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National Security Adviser’s Criticism: Mike Waltz, the US national security adviser, criticized Ukrainian President Zelenskyy for opposing Trump’s approach to peace talks with Russia and urged him to reconsider the proposed deal.
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Trump’s Frustration with Zelenskyy: Trump expressed frustration with Zelenskyy for not engaging in peace talks, calling him a “dictator” who canceled elections and blamed Ukraine for the war.
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Elon Musk’s Attack on Zelenskyy: Elon Musk, leading Trump’s US government overhaul, also criticized Zelenskyy, accusing him of corruption and claiming Ukrainians despise their president.
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Kellogg’s Cancelled Press Conference: Keith Kellogg, Trump’s special envoy to Ukraine, canceled a press conference in Kyiv, signaling growing tensions between the US and Ukraine.
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Zelenskyy’s Response: Zelenskyy dismissed Trump’s criticisms, saying Trump was influenced by Kremlin disinformation. He reaffirmed Ukraine’s gratitude for US support.
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US Vice President’s Optimism: US Vice-President JD Vance expressed optimism that peace talks with Russia are progressing, suggesting that Trump’s approach could bring peace to Europe.
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US and Ukraine Diplomacy Shifting: The situation points to a shift in US diplomatic strategy, with growing tensions between the US and Ukraine over the peace talks with Russia.