During his address to Congress on March 4, 2025, President Donald Trump read aloud a letter he claimed to have received from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The letter expressed Ukraine’s readiness to engage in peace negotiations with Russia and to finalize a minerals agreement with the United States. Trump stated that Zelensky was “ready to come to the negotiating table and sign the minerals deal.”
This development follows a period of strained relations between the U.S. and Ukraine. A recent meeting between Trump and Zelensky reportedly devolved into a shouting match, leading to the U.S. halting military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine. However, Zelensky’s letter appears to signal a willingness to mend ties and pursue peace, potentially leading to the resumption of U.S. support.
The letter also mentioned Ukraine’s readiness to sign an agreement on minerals and security at a convenient time, thanking America for its support in maintaining Ukraine’s independence. Trump emphasized that both Ukraine and Russia are prepared for peace talks, expressing hope for an end to the ongoing conflict.
In response to the letter, Trump indicated a potential shift in U.S. policy, suggesting that resuming aid to Ukraine could be contingent upon progress in peace negotiations. This development has been viewed as a positive step towards stabilizing the region and strengthening U.S.-Ukraine relations.
