KYIV:
The U.S. envoy appointed by President Donald Trump to address the Ukraine conflict met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv on Thursday. However, there was no immediate indication of whether their discussions helped ease tensions between the two allies amid an ongoing wartime dispute.
Earlier, Zelenskyy had taken a reconciliatory stance following Trump’s remarks, in which the U.S. president accused Ukraine of initiating the three-year conflict with Russia and referred to Zelenskyy as a “dictator” who needed to act swiftly or risk losing Ukraine.
Trump, who has been in office for just a month, is advocating for a rapid resolution to the war. His approach has raised concerns among European allies, particularly as he has excluded Ukraine and European nations from initial negotiations with Russia. Vice President JD Vance stated on Thursday that he believed the conflict’s resolution was imminent.
Keith Kellogg, Trump’s envoy for Ukraine and Russia, arrived in Kyiv on Wednesday, emphasizing that his visit was primarily to listen. During their meeting on Thursday, Zelenskyy greeted Kellogg warmly, shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries, expressing gratitude for his visit.
No immediate statements were issued from either side regarding the outcome of their discussions. Trump’s administration is working to rebuild ties with Russia while also seeking investment opportunities in Ukraine’s mineral sector, which is vital for energy production. However, Ukraine has rejected the initial U.S. proposal, citing the absence of security guarantees.
White House National Security Adviser Mike Waltz suggested that Ukraine should adopt a more measured approach in its response to U.S. policies and consider the minerals agreement. “They need to tone it down and seriously evaluate the deal,” he said in an interview with Fox News.
Security Commitments
European leaders, reacting to Trump’s shifting stance on Ukraine, have pledged to enhance their defense capabilities. Some are even exploring the possibility of deploying a European peacekeeping mission backed by the U.S. The Kremlin has voiced concerns over the proposal, while both NATO and Zelenskyy have welcomed the initiative.
“NATO has a crucial role in securing lasting peace in Ukraine, though many details remain to be ironed out,” NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte stated in Bratislava, emphasizing the necessity of strong security assurances.
Addressing the Ukrainian public on Wednesday evening, Zelenskyy underscored the importance of maintaining constructive ties with Washington. “Our resilience remains firm. I rely on Ukraine’s unity, our bravery, Europe’s solidarity, and America’s pragmatic approach,” he said.
Meanwhile, Russian forces continue their offensive, devastating Ukrainian cities, towns, and villages. They are advancing along parts of the 1,000-kilometer front line in the east and south, maintaining control over approximately one-fifth of Ukraine and claiming additional territories.
