US-Ukraine Tensions Rise Over Minerals Deal

Tensions between the US and Ukraine have intensified as President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy engage in a heated exchange over peace talks and a proposed minerals deal. US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz urged Ukraine to accept the deal, which would grant the US access to Ukrainian resources in exchange for economic and security commitments, despite Zelenskyy's rejection citing insufficient security guarantees. The talks in Saudi Arabia, excluding Ukraine, have sparked criticism from Zelenskyy and European allies, who oppose any deal made without Ukrainian involvement. Meanwhile, Trump has escalated tensions by labeling Zelenskyy a 'dictator,' while Ukrainian officials criticize US handling of peace talks dominated by Russia. The situation has led to a canceled press conference and raised doubts about continued US support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.