President Donald Trump anticipates Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's visit to Washington towards the week's end to establish an economic alliance with the U.S., offering Ukraine potential security post a Russian invasion in a postwar scenario.
Trump casually informed reporters in the Oval Office on Tuesday afternoon that Zelenskyy might arrive on Friday, expressing his willingness to sign a joint agreement. He emphasized the significance of this potential pact.
Zelenskyy's Potential Visit
An administration official hinted at a possible Friday visit by Zelenskyy, indicating progress towards a joint economic deal concerning Ukraine's valuable mineral reserves.
Recent days saw Trump disparage Zelenskyy as a 'dictator' and shift blame to Ukraine for the ongoing conflict with Russia. This public pressure aimed to persuade Ukraine to agree to a proposal benefiting the U.S. economically post-war.
While Zelenskyy initially rejected a U.S. proposal seeking future revenue from Ukraine, Trump's persistence underscores the limited options Ukraine faces after years of conflict.
Trump framed the agreement as Ukraine reimbursing the U.S. for past aid, emphasizing the desire to recoup funds. He reiterated false claims about aid amounts sent to Ukraine, possibly to justify U.S. interests in Ukraine's assets.
Security Implications
Supporters of the minerals deal, like Sen. Lindsey Graham, suggest it offers a security guarantee due to U.S. economic interests in Ukraine. Trump hinted that Europe, not the U.S., would primarily support Ukraine militarily post-conflict.
As discussions continue, the economic partnership between the U.S. and Ukraine could have significant geopolitical implications beyond economic ties.