US National Security Adviser Michael Waltz confirmed that President Trump is increasingly impatient with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s refusal to negotiate a minerals deal aimed at securing US interests in Ukraine. Waltz stated that Zelenskyy’s unwillingness to return to the table is a major setback, sparking frustration in Washington.
The deal would have allowed the US to tap into Ukraine’s vast mineral resources, ensuring a strategic advantage while offering Ukraine financial aid. However, Zelenskyy rejected the agreement, claiming the US did not provide strong security guarantees. His refusal has caused tensions to escalate, with Trump voicing concerns about the future of US aid to Ukraine.
“He needs to come back to the table,” Waltz stated at a press briefing. “President Trump is obviously very frustrated right now with President Zelenskyy, the fact that he hasn’t been willing to take this opportunity that we have offered.”
Zelenskyy later responded, emphasizing Ukraine’s need for a strong and lasting security agreement. He claimed his government is open to discussions, but only if the terms are fair and beneficial to Ukraine’s security and economy.
Meanwhile, Washington abruptly canceled a planned press conference between Zelenskyy and US envoy Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg, further signaling the growing diplomatic crisis.
The tensions come amid Trump’s repeated criticisms of Zelenskyy, with the former president suggesting that Ukraine should bear more responsibility for the ongoing war. Trump’s remarks have drawn sharp reactions from European allies, who warn that US hesitation in supporting Ukraine could impact the global balance of power.
As US-Ukraine relations remain strained, political analysts question whether Trump’s tough approach will force Kyiv back to negotiations or push the two nations further apart.
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