Ukraine Ready for Peace Talks As Trump Reads Zelensky’s Letter In Congress.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed readiness for peace talks with Russia and the finalisation of a US minerals agreement, according to US President Donald Trump. This development comes just days after their contentious White House meeting, which led to a suspension of crucial US military aid to Kyiv.
Since the televised dispute in the Oval Office, relations between Kyiv and Washington have strained significantly. However, Zelensky has taken steps to mend ties, stating on social media that their disagreement was “regrettable” and expressing his desire to “make things right.”
During his address to the US Congress on Tuesday, Trump read aloud from a letter he claimed to have received from Zelensky, which echoed the Ukrainian leader’s social media statement.
“The letter reads, ‘Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer. Nobody wants peace more than the Ukrainians,’” Trump told US lawmakers. He further acknowledged Ukraine’s appreciation for American support, quoting the letter: “We do really value how much America has done to help Ukraine maintain its sovereignty and independence.”
Additionally, Trump confirmed Ukraine’s willingness to proceed with the minerals and security agreement, saying, “Ukraine is ready to sign it at any time that is convenient for you.”
Lukashenko Offers to Mediate Peace Talks
Meanwhile, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has stepped forward as a potential mediator, offering to host peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. In a video interview with US blogger Mario Nawfal, Lukashenko extended an invitation to Trump, Zelensky, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, suggesting they “sit down and calmly make an accord.” He emphasised the need for an agreement with Zelensky, given the support he holds among the Ukrainian people.
Tensions Over US-Ukraine Relations
The fallout from last week’s White House meeting saw Vice President JD Vance criticise Zelensky for being ungrateful for US support, while Trump accused the Ukrainian leader of lacking leverage in negotiations.
Zelensky’s visit to Washington was initially expected to result in a signed deal granting the US access to Ukraine’s vast mineral resources as part of a post-war recovery plan. However, after the heated exchange in the Oval Office, the agreement remained unsigned, and Zelensky was asked to leave.
Trump’s decision to suspend military aid to Ukraine has drawn mixed reactions. While Moscow welcomed the move, stating it could push Kyiv towards peace negotiations, European allies have expressed concern. The European Union remains excluded from US-Russian peace discussions, raising fears that any proposed deal may favour Moscow’s interests.
Global Reactions and Security Concerns
In Ukraine, many citizens feel betrayed by the sudden shift in US policy. “It’s like a stab in the back,” said Sofia, a financial assistant in Kyiv. Army volunteer Sergiy Sternenko accused Trump of seeking Ukraine’s surrender, warning of the dire consequences for the country’s sovereignty.
Poland’s government has voiced concern that Washington’s decision was made without consulting NATO allies. French Prime Minister François Bayrou highlighted the disruption, noting that “entire trains” carrying US supplies for Ukraine had been halted.
Potential European Peacekeeping Role
Amid the uncertainty, Britain and France are exploring the possibility of proposing a one-month truce between Russia and Ukraine. The initiative, discussed during crisis talks in London, may involve European peacekeeping troops to enforce the ceasefire.
US Vice President Vance, however, dismissed the idea of external intervention, suggesting that no country lacking recent war experience could contribute effectively. His remarks sparked backlash from European leaders, though he later clarified that he was not referring to France or Britain specifically, acknowledging their long-standing military cooperation with the US.
As diplomatic efforts continue, the world watches closely to see whether Ukraine’s call for peace talks will lead to tangible progress in ending the three-year conflict.
