Zelensky Rejects US Aid Repayment, Mineral Deal Amid Rising Tensions

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected U.S. demands to classify past American aid as repayable debt and has backed out of a critical minerals agreement with the Trump administration, escalating tensions between Washington and Kyiv. Trump responded by warning that Zelensky could face 'big problems' if he reneges on the mineral deal, which would grant the U.S. access to Ukraine's valuable natural resources. Analysts express concern that this growing rift could jeopardize U.S. support for Ukraine, as Zelensky pivots towards strengthening European defense partnerships. The proposed minerals deal, which has undergone several revisions, has sparked alarm in Ukraine due to perceived imbalances in power and terms. Trump's comments included dismissals of Ukraine's NATO ambitions, suggesting that Zelensky's attempts to renegotiate the agreement are tied to these aspirations. As the situation unfolds, there are fears that Ukraine’s reliance on U.S. aid may decline amid escalating Russian aggression.