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(TJV) President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky are reportedly preparing to sign a comprehensive minerals agreement, with an official announcement expected on Tuesday, according to Reuters, which cited four sources familiar with the matter.
The agreement comes after a tense Oval Office meeting last week, where Zelensky faced a stark shift in diplomatic tone from the Trump administration. Following the meeting, the Ukrainian leader admitted in a statement Tuesday that discussions “did not go the way they were supposed to.”
For years, Ukraine has relied on consistent U.S. aid under the Biden administration. However, sources suggest Zelensky was caught off guard by Trump’s firm stance on negotiating an end to the ongoing conflict.
In a post on X, Zelensky acknowledged the necessity of diplomacy, echoing Trump’s longstanding argument that Ukraine cannot sustain a perpetual war.
“I would like to reiterate Ukraine’s commitment to peace. None of us wants an endless war. Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer. Nobody wants peace more than Ukrainians,” Zelensky wrote.
Recognizing the potential shift in U.S. foreign policy, he expressed readiness to move forward with the minerals deal, which had initially been set for signing last Friday before the diplomatic turbulence.
Zelensky further outlined initial steps toward de-escalation, suggesting prisoner exchanges and mutual ceasefires on missile and drone strikes, as well as civilian infrastructure protections. He emphasized Ukraine’s appreciation for past U.S. military support, particularly the provision of Javelins under Trump’s leadership, and expressed hope for constructive future cooperation.
Regarding the minerals and security agreement, Zelensky confirmed Ukraine’s readiness to finalize the deal “at any time and in any format,” framing it as a step toward stronger security assurances.
Meanwhile, Trump is expected to highlight the agreement in his address to Congress on Tuesday evening. According to Reuters, sources close to the administration indicated that Trump is eager to make the announcement during his speech, though final details remain fluid.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump teased a major reveal, stating:
“TOMORROW NIGHT WILL BE BIG. I WILL TELL IT LIKE IT IS!”
As diplomatic dynamics continue to evolve, all eyes will be on Washington for what could be a pivotal moment in U.S.-Ukraine relations.
