Trump Issues Comments Ahead Of Negotiations In Saudi Arabia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky finds himself at a critical crossroads as the Trump administration signals that mineral access alone won’t be enough to secure renewed military aid and intelligence-sharing from the U.S.
According to reports, President Donald Trump has made it clear that if Ukraine wants continued American support, it must be willing to make significant concessions—both in peace negotiations with Russia and in its own political landscape.
At the heart of the discussions is a proposed agreement that would grant the U.S. a stake in Ukraine’s vast mineral reserves. However, Trump is reportedly insisting that Zelensky take further steps, including a commitment to holding elections—despite Ukraine’s ongoing martial law, which has suspended electoral processes since the Russian invasion in 2022.
More controversially, Trump is said to be pushing for Zelensky to consider territorial concessions to Russia and potentially even step down as Ukraine’s leader.
This high-stakes diplomatic maneuvering comes as Ukraine and the U.S. prepare for negotiations in Saudi Arabia. White House National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes acknowledged that Ukraine has recently shown “positive movement” toward talks, with hopes that the upcoming meetings will pave the way for a resolution to the conflict.
Meanwhile, Russia has escalated its military operations in Ukraine, a development coinciding with the Trump administration’s decision to halt military aid and intelligence-sharing. However, U.S. officials maintain that Russia’s latest offensive was likely planned well in advance and not a direct result of the intelligence freeze.
Pressure is mounting in Washington, particularly from congressional Republicans, who are pushing the White House to reinstate military assistance and intelligence-sharing with Ukraine. Some officials remain optimistic that aid could resume as early as next week, particularly after Zelensky’s recent public statements signaling a newfound willingness to engage in peace talks.
The Ukrainian president has expressed readiness to negotiate “as soon as possible” and has affirmed his commitment to working under Trump’s leadership to secure a lasting peace.
Trump, for his part, remains firm in his position that Ukraine must demonstrate a genuine commitment to peace. Speaking to reporters, he stressed that while he wants Ukraine to succeed, the country has yet to show the level of willingness he expects. Still, he expressed hope that Zelensky will come to the table with a serious proposal.