WORLD NEWS
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy revealed that he had a productive meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump during the funeral of Pope Francis. The discussion, which Zelenskiy described as the best the two have ever had, focused on air defence systems, sanctions on Russia, and potential steps towards a ceasefire in Ukraine.
Zelenskiy shared that he and Trump agreed on the importance of a 30-day ceasefire between Kyiv and Moscow as the initial step toward ending the war. This period of ceasefire would provide much-needed relief to civilians in war-torn areas, while also allowing space for peace talks to resume.
The meeting also saw Zelenskiy raise the issue of sanctions on Russia, which he stated Trump responded to strongly, although specifics of the response were not revealed. The sanctions remain a crucial tool in the West's strategy to weaken Russia's military and economic capabilities in the face of its invasion of Ukraine.
Zelenskiy also highlighted the significance of the critical minerals deal signed between the two countries, which he said would benefit both Ukraine and the United States. The agreement, heavily promoted by Trump, aims to give the U.S. preferential access to new minerals deals in Ukraine and will encourage U.S. investments in the country's reconstruction efforts.
"This will allow us to defend both U.S. investments and our own territory and people," Zelenskiy remarked, underscoring the strategic importance of the deal for Ukraine's future.
On the security front, Zelenskiy reiterated the urgent need for more effective air defence systems. Ukraine has consistently requested enhanced air defences from its allies throughout Russia's ongoing full-scale invasion. Trump reportedly assured Zelenskiy that the U.S. would work on providing additional air defence systems to Ukraine.
Regarding Moscow’s recent offer of a three-day ceasefire around May 9, when Russia celebrates its World War II victory, Zelenskiy emphasized that while Ukraine was open to a truce, it would only support a 30-day ceasefire, a key demand for Kyiv.
"We cannot guarantee the safety of any foreign dignitaries who come to Moscow for the May 9 victory parade," Zelenskiy noted, pointing out that the responsibility for security on Russian soil lies with the Russian Federation.
As both countries continue to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape, the discussion between Zelenskiy and Trump signals ongoing diplomatic efforts to bring an end to the brutal conflict in Ukraine.
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