Trump Plans Minerals Deal With Ukraine, Critiques Zelensky

Former President Donald Trump has shifted his stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, clarifying that he does not hold Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responsible for the war but remains critical of Zelensky's leadership. At a press conference with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Trump reiterated his dissatisfaction with how the war began and stated he is "not a big fan" of Zelensky, though he stopped short of directly blaming him. Trump also announced progress toward a minerals deal between the United States and Ukraine, expected to be signed soon, which is intended to compensate the U.S. for wartime aid provided to Ukraine. The negotiations for this deal were previously delayed due to tensions between Trump and Zelensky. Meanwhile, Meloni emphasized Italy's continued support for Ukraine and the goal of building a lasting peace. Trump has also argued that the conflict would not have started under his presidency and has criticized his predecessor for the ongoing war.