Zelensky's Oval Office Gamble: Trump's Fury and a Botched Mineral Deal

2025-03-01 12:05:28.372

President Trump's special envoy urged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to sign a mineral rights deal in Kyiv, but Zelensky's chief of staff insisted on a White House signing. Despite advice against it, the meeting proceeded, resulting in a heated exchange between Zelensky and Trump. The deal, which would have given Washington 50% of future proceeds from Ukraine's minerals, remains unsigned. The fallout leaves relations between the two countries strained and Zelensky needing to repair the damage. Zelensky's choice of casual attire for the meeting also contributed to the negative outcome, according to US officials.