Zelensky Ready to Work Under Trump’s “Leadership” for “Lasting Peace” in Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Tuesday his readiness to work under President Donald Trump’s “leadership” to achieve “lasting peace” in Ukraine, amid escalating tensions with the White House.

Zelensky said via the social media platform “X”: “My team and I are ready to work under President Trump’s leadership to achieve lasting peace,” expressing his desire to “set things right” with his American counterpart after the sharp disagreement that erupted between them last Friday.

Zelensky added: “Our meeting at the White House in Washington did not go as planned. It’s unfortunate that things went this way. It’s time to correct the situation,” expressing hope for “constructive cooperation and communication in the future.”

The Ukrainian President also proposed a “ceasefire” in the air and sea, as well as a prisoner exchange with Russia as “first steps” aimed at “ending the war,” which broke out after the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Zelensky said: “The first steps could include releasing prisoners and a ceasefire in the air – banning long-range missiles, drones, and bombs on civilian infrastructure,” especially energy, adding: “And an immediate ceasefire at sea if Russia does the same.”

Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine is “grateful” for American military aid, referring to Trump’s criticisms directed at him during their verbal confrontation at the White House on Friday, where he accused him of disrespect and not expressing gratitude to Washington for its efforts to end the war.

For his part, the American President ordered a temporary halt to US military aid to Ukraine on Monday, which is vital to Kyiv’s ability to defend itself.

Zelensky expressed his gratitude, saying: “We truly appreciate everything America has done to help Ukraine maintain its sovereignty and independence. We remember the moment things changed when President Trump (during his first term) provided Javelin anti-tank missiles to Ukraine. We are grateful for that.”

Finally, the Ukrainian President confirmed his readiness to sign “at any time” the planned framework agreement with the United States regarding the exploitation of Ukrainian mineral resources, which was postponed due to the disagreement with Trump.

Zelensky said: “We consider this agreement a step towards more security and strong security guarantees, and I sincerely hope it will work effectively.”