Former U.S. President Donald Trump met with French President Emmanuel Macron, expressing optimism that a resolution was near. Trump claimed Russian President Vladimir Putin was open to deploying European peacekeepers in Ukraine.
Trump, addressing reporters on the third anniversary of the war, stated, “It looks like we’re getting very close.” He added that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy might visit Washington soon to finalize an economic deal.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European Peacekeeping Plans
Trump suggested that Putin would accept European peacekeepers in Ukraine to help maintain post-war stability. “Yes, he will accept it,” Trump claimed, emphasizing that Putin was not seeking further conflict.
Meanwhile, Macron underscored the importance of securing lasting peace. “We must establish solid guarantees for enduring peace,” he said, highlighting Europe’s critical role in the negotiations.
Ukraine’s Economic Future and Critical Minerals Deal
Trump stressed that an economic agreement would grant the U.S. access to Ukraine’s critical minerals. He noted this deal could help offset the $180 billion in American aid provided since the war began. Initially hesitant, Volodymyr Zelenskyy demanded stronger security assurances for Ukraine. “We are making great progress,” Zelenskyy stated, adding, “This economic agreement must be part of a true security framework.”
Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s Leadership and NATO Aspirations
Zelenskyy recently stated he would step down as president if it meant Ukraine’s acceptance into NATO. “If it ensures peace for Ukraine, I am willing to step aside,” he said. His comments followed Trump’s criticism, labeling him a “dictator” for postponing wartime elections.
However, Zelenskyy rejected Trump’s notion that Ukraine should retroactively repay the U.S. for military aid. “We agreed with Biden that this was a grant, not a debt,” he affirmed.
Despite differing opinions, Trump maintained that a new mineral deal with Ukraine was imminent. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that negotiations were at the “one-yard line” of completion.