In a radio interview with Fox News, US President Donald Trump said his Ukrainian counterpart, Voldymir Zelensky, has “no card” to play to end the war in Ukraine. .
Keith Kellogg, a special US envoy to Ukraine and Russia, praised Zelensky as “the war-state battle and brave leader,” and provided a harsh departure from Trump’s harsh rhetoric.
Meanwhile, in a social media post, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sibiha said he spoke with Secretary of State Marco Rubio about a “consequence-oriented” dialogue between the two countries.
“I spoke with Secretary Rubio and continued my dialogue with results-oriented Ukraine,” Sibiha wrote on social media platform X.
“Ahead of the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale attack, I have emphasized Ukraine’s strong will to achieve comprehensive, just and lasting peace, which will strengthen Ukraine and the United States.”
Trump teases natural resource deals with Ukraine
Also, in response to questions in the oval office, Trump told reporters that he was optimistic.
“We’re signing the contract in the next fairly short period,” Trump said.
Earlier this month, media reports emerged that Trump’s team had sought 50% ownership of Ukraine’s rare earth minerals in exchange for support for Russian invasion.
The proposal was shot down, but Trump officials continue to maintain pressure on the Ukrainian government, making transactions based on access to the country’s mineral resources.