Trump Pushes Ukraine Peace Deal, Mineral Access Amidst Third Anniversary of Invasion

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump expressed optimism that the conflict in Ukraine was nearing an end during a recent meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, coinciding with the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion. Trump indicated his belief that Russian President Vladimir Putin would accept European peacekeepers in Ukraine as part of a potential peace agreement.

The U.S. President voiced hopes for a resolution within weeks, suggesting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy might visit Washington soon to finalize a deal. This agreement would grant the U.S. access to Ukraine’s critical minerals, intended to help offset the $180 billion in American aid provided to Kyiv. Trump stated, “It looks like we’re getting very close,” following a virtual meeting with G7 leaders to discuss the ongoing war.

These high-stakes discussions unfold as transatlantic relations face significant uncertainty due to Trump’s shift in U.S. foreign policy, prioritizing a swift end to the war over traditional European leadership. While Ukraine seeks future security guarantees, Trump did not specify if the emerging deal would include American assurances, stating, “Europe is going to make sure nothing happens.”

The anniversary and talks highlight European apprehension regarding the dramatic change in American foreign policy with Trump’s return to power. Despite initial friction with Zelenskyy over security guarantees and Trump’s past criticisms, both leaders appear to be progressing towards a potential economic and security arrangement. Macron, ahead of his meeting with Trump, emphasized the importance of not showing weakness to Putin, linking it to future credibility with China.

The developments follow the U.N. General Assembly’s recent approval of a European-backed Ukrainian resolution demanding Russia’s immediate withdrawal, contrasting with a failed U.S. resolution that omitted direct mention of Russian aggression. Trump is also scheduled to meet with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, continuing his diplomatic push to reshape the conflict’s trajectory.

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