President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky are working to coordinate their first meeting since Trump returned to office, with both sides discussing potential negotiations on US support and Ukraine’s resources.
On Friday, Trump said he would “probably” meet with Zelensky next week, though he did not confirm if the meeting would take place in Washington. “It could be Washington, well, I’m not going there,” Trump said, ruling out a trip to Kyiv.
Zelensky, in a Telegram post, expressed appreciation for cooperation with Trump, noting that his team was actively working with US counterparts to finalize details. In an interview, he indicated openness to negotiating increased US support in exchange for Ukraine’s rare earths and other minerals, emphasizing a partnership rather than simply offering resources. He also mentioned discussions about storing US liquefied natural gas in Ukraine’s underground storage sites, adding, “The Americans helped the most, and therefore the Americans should earn the most.”
Trump’s approach to Ukraine has raised concerns in Europe, given his past skepticism of US aid and suggestions that Kyiv consider territorial concessions. While Trump has said he seeks to push for an end to the conflict with Russia, he has also hinted at discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin. On Friday, he stated he would probably be talking to Putin but did not elaborate on when or how the discussion might take place.
