Zelensky Expresses Readiness for Minerals Deal with the US
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has conveyed his willingness to finalize a significant minerals agreement with the United States following a summit in London hosted by Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the UK Labour Party. During a press conference at Stansted Airport before departing the UK on Sunday night, Zelensky acknowledged being informed about discussions led by Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, who proposed a temporary truce lasting one month by sea and air, stating, “I’m aware of everything.”
Zelensky reiterated his position regarding Ukraine’s aspiration for NATO membership, declaring that he is open to negotiations regarding Ukraine’s integration into the alliance.
Earlier, Starmer introduced a four-point strategy aimed at enhancing military support for Ukraine, which includes the formation of a coalition among European allies to ensure lasting peace.
Government Minister Responds to Lord Mandelson’s Ceasefire Remarks
In a related development, Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard has publicly disagreed with Lord Mandelson, the UK’s ambassador to Washington, who suggested that Ukraine should take the initiative to declare a ceasefire and challenge Russia to follow suit. When asked if this position reflects government policy during an interview on Sky News, Pollard firmly responded, “no.”
Mandelson’s comments come in the wake of reports indicating that Starmer and Macron are advocating for a ceasefire that would exclude ongoing ground combat operations. Pollard further elaborated that while military deployments are conceivable, any peace deal would necessitate assurances from the United States. He emphasized, “At the moment, we’ve pledged that the UK will step up as part of that multinational effort,” when questioned about the potential deployment of British peacekeeping forces in Ukraine without American support.
Zelensky Affirms Commitment to Rare Earth Minerals Agreement
Good morning, and welcome to The i Paper’s live politics blog. President Zelensky has reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to signing a pivotal deal with the United States concerning access to rare earth minerals. This announcement follows a summit where Sir Keir Starmer hosted European leaders, including Zelensky.
During a press conference last night, after a meeting with the British monarch, Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine is prepared to commit to the minerals deal, stating, “If we agreed to sign the minerals deal, we’re ready to sign it. The agreement that’s on the table will be signed if the parties are ready.” This deal had been temporarily shelved after a tense meeting with former President Donald Trump in the Oval Office, which reportedly ended with Zelensky being escorted out.
Zelensky emphasized Ukraine’s proactive stance, saying, “It is our policy to continue what happened in the past; we’re constructive.”
