Zelensky Signals Willingness to Work Under Trump’s Leadership for “Lasting Peace” in Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed readiness to work with U.S. President Trump for peace in Ukraine, following a tense meeting. He proposed ceasefire steps and a prisoner exchange to de-escalate the ongoing conflict. Zelensky also showcased eagerness to finalize a mineral deal with the U.S., crucial for Ukraine's security and reconstruction.
hassan benyoub 
Kyiv, March 4, 2025 – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declared on Tuesday his readiness to collaborate under U.S. President Donald Trump’s leadership to achieve “lasting peace” in Ukraine, amid ongoing tensions following their fiery confrontation last Friday. In a post on X, Zelensky expressed regret over their White House clash and extended an olive branch, signaling a desire to “fix things” and foster constructive dialogue.
Mending Fences After a Tense Encounter
Zelensky acknowledged the fallout from Friday’s Oval Office meeting, where Trump accused him of ingratitude and disrespect, ejecting him amid disagreements over Ukraine’s war strategy and U.S. aid. “Our meeting at the White House didn’t go as planned. It’s unfortunate it happened this way. It’s time to fix things,” Zelensky wrote on X, emphasizing his commitment to “cooperation and constructive communication moving forward” ([X post, March 4, 2025]).
This conciliatory tone comes as Trump ordered a pause in U.S. military aid to Ukraine on Monday, threatening Kyiv’s ability to fend off Russia. Zelensky countered by expressing gratitude for past U.S. support, recalling Trump’s first-term decision to supply Javelin anti-tank missiles in 2018. “We truly appreciate everything America has done to help Ukraine maintain its sovereignty and independence,” he stated.
Peace Proposals and Ceasefire Steps
To break the deadlock, Zelensky proposed initial steps toward ending the war, now in its third year since Russia’s 2022 invasion. These include:
- A ceasefire in the air, banning long-range missiles, drones, and bombs targeting civilian infrastructure, especially energy systems.
- An immediate maritime truce, contingent on Russia’s reciprocity.
- A prisoner exchange with Moscow to build trust.
“These could be the first steps to end the war,” Zelensky said on X, framing them as practical measures to de-escalate while maintaining Ukraine’s position.
Mineral Deal and Strategic Alignment
Zelensky also signaled readiness to sign a long-delayed U.S.-Ukraine framework agreement on exploiting Ukraine’s rare earth minerals, crucial for reconstruction and security. “We see this agreement as a step toward greater security and solid guarantees, and I sincerely hope it will work effectively,” he noted, addressing Trump’s push for economic ties amid the aid freeze.
This aligns with Trump’s interest in a mineral pact, though Zelensky’s outreach aims to rebuild trust after their public spat, which saw Trump label him a “dictator without elections” ([ABC News, Feb 28, 2025]).
Why It Matters
Zelensky’s pivot reflects urgency as U.S. support wavers, with European leaders like France’s Emmanuel Macron urging autonomy amid Trump’s NATO skepticism ([Macron statement, March 2, 2025]). Posts on X show mixed reactions: pro-Ukraine users applaud Zelensky’s pragmatism, while Trump supporters question his sincerity ([X posts, March 4, 2025]). The move could reshape peace talks, but success hinges on Russia’s response and Trump’s willingness to engage.
What’s Next?
Zelensky’s ceasefire proposals and mineral deal offer may prompt Trump to reconsider the aid pause, while testing Moscow’s appetite for dialogue.
