Zelensky Rejects U.S. Minerals Deal; Tensions Escalate with Trump

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent revealed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky rejected a proposed minerals deal with the United States on two previous occasions, leading to a tense meeting with President Trump. During a recent confrontation in the Oval Office, Trump and Vice President JD Vance criticized Zelensky for his failure to finalize the agreement, which was seen as a missed opportunity for Ukraine to secure U.S. aid in exchange for natural resources. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the negotiations a 'fiasco' and demanded an apology from Zelensky, questioning his commitment to a peaceful resolution. The proposed deal, which entails Kyiv repaying $500 million from its natural resources, has been met with skepticism from Zelensky, who prefers grants over loans. The exchanges have highlighted a rift in U.S.-Ukraine relations since the Trump administration took office. As tensions escalate, the situation underscores the complexities of international diplomacy amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.