Following a strained White House meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President Donald Trump announced he will clarify the status of a proposed rare-earth minerals agreement during his address to Congress on Tuesday. The meeting, intended to finalize the deal granting the U.S. access to Ukrainian minerals in exchange for American support, ended abruptly after a disagreement over negotiation tactics and trust in Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump subsequently stated Zelenskyy could return to the White House when prepared for peace.

Trump emphasized the potential benefits of the deal for the United States, describing it as "a great deal for us." Zelenskyy, speaking from London, affirmed his commitment to the agreement and expressed confidence in the enduring relationship between the two nations. However, Trump indicated he expects greater appreciation from Zelenskyy for U.S. support during the conflict before resuming negotiations. He stressed the substantial aid provided by the U.S., exceeding European contributions, and highlighted the proximity of the conflict to Europe's borders.

President Donald Trump meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Oval Office of the White House on Feb. 28, 2025. (Mystyslav Chernov/The Associated Press)

Previously, Trump had lauded the minerals agreement as a pivotal step toward a stronger bilateral relationship, offering access to vital resources like oil and gas. He also suggested it would offset taxpayer expenses related to U.S. assistance to Ukraine following Russia's 2022 invasion. Reports indicate Congress has allocated $175 billion in aid to Ukraine since 2022, while European assistance totals approximately $138.7 billion.

President Donald Trump meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as Vice President JD Vance reacts at the White House on Feb. 28, 2025. (Brian Snyder/Reuters)

The White House meeting became tense when Zelenskyy voiced distrust of Putin and cited broken agreements. Trump and Vice President JD Vance responded by accusing Zelenskyy of ingratitude and criticized his negotiating stance. Trump admonished Zelenskyy for "gambling" with lives and the possibility of World War III. Despite the contentious exchange, Zelenskyy later expressed gratitude to the U.S. for its support via social media, reiterating Ukraine's pursuit of a just and lasting peace.