Trump Officials Discuss Quick Elections With Ukrainian Opposition

Four senior members of Donald Trump's entourage have engaged in discussions with Ukrainian political opponents of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, including opposition leader Yulia Tymoshenko, amid rising pressure for Zelenskyy to resign. These talks focused on the possibility of quick presidential elections in Ukraine, which are currently hindered by martial law. Critics warn that holding elections could exacerbate chaos and benefit Russia, as many voters are serving on the front lines or living abroad as refugees. Meanwhile, following a tense meeting at the White House, U.S. officials have also reached out to Zelenskyy to mend relations and encourage the resumption of negotiations regarding a rare earth metals deal. Despite the pressure, recent polls indicate Zelenskyy still holds a favorable lead over potential rivals, although public sentiment is shifting due to concerns over war fatigue and corruption. The U.S. administration maintains that it is not interfering in Ukraine's domestic politics even as Trump allies engage with opposition figures.