Zelenskyy Says He Is Ready to Work Under Trump’s ‘Strong Leadership’

Zelenskyy Signals Willingness to Work Under Trump’s Leadership, Pushes for Security Agreement

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed readiness to sign a minerals and security agreement with the United States and to collaborate under Donald Trump’s leadership if he returns to the White House.

While acknowledging that his recent meeting with Trump "did not go the way it was supposed to," Zelenskyy reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to peace and praised the former U.S. president for previously supplying Javelin anti-tank missiles to Kyiv.

Call for Peace and Negotiations

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Zelenskyy reiterated Ukraine’s desire for an end to the war and emphasized the need for negotiations to secure lasting peace.

"None of us wants an endless war. Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer. Nobody wants peace more than Ukrainians. My team and I stand ready to work under President Trump’s strong leadership to achieve a peace that endures," he said.

Outlining potential first steps, he proposed a prisoner exchange and an immediate ceasefire in the air and at sea—halting missile strikes, long-range drone attacks, and bombings of energy and civilian infrastructure, provided Russia reciprocates. He stressed the urgency of moving swiftly through subsequent stages to secure a final peace deal in coordination with the United States.

Praise for U.S. Support, Concerns Over White House Meeting

Zelenskyy also expressed appreciation for U.S. military aid, specifically citing Trump’s decision to supply Javelin missiles, which he described as a turning point in Ukraine’s defense efforts.

"We deeply value America’s support in helping Ukraine maintain its sovereignty and independence. We remember when the situation changed—when President Trump provided Ukraine with Javelins. We are grateful for that."

However, he voiced regret over the recent meeting at the White House, indicating it did not go as planned.

"Our meeting in Washington, at the White House on Friday, did not unfold the way it was supposed to. It is unfortunate that things happened this way. Now is the time to set things right. We hope for constructive cooperation and communication moving forward."

Ukraine Ready to Sign Security and Minerals Agreement

Zelenskyy also confirmed that Kyiv is prepared to finalize a minerals and security agreement with the U.S. at any time and in any format. He framed the deal as a crucial step toward bolstering Ukraine’s security and ensuring long-term stability.

"We see this agreement as a step toward greater security and strong security guarantees. I truly hope it will be effective," he said.

The Ukrainian leader’s remarks come as Kyiv continues to seek strategic support from Washington, while preparing for potential shifts in U.S. policy ahead of the 2024 presidential election.

SLHA

4 March 2025