In a recent interview on NBC’s "Meet the Press," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made it clear that Ukraine will never accept a peace deal negotiated solely between the United States and Russia without Ukraine’s direct involvement. Zelensky recounted a phone call with former President Trump in which he warned about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s untrustworthiness, even going so far as to call him a liar. While praising Trump’s strength and suggesting that Putin might be intimidated by him, Zelensky emphasized that any negotiations must include Ukraine to ensure its security and sovereignty. The discussion comes ahead of high-level talks involving American officials and Russian representatives in Saudi Arabia and amid concerns that Putin may be building up forces for a repeat of past aggressive maneuvers. Additionally, the article touched on a controversial term sheet proposal involving U.S. investment in Ukraine’s mineral resources, which Zelensky declined, even as U.S. officials defended it as a means to secure Ukraine’s future and provide a form of payback for American aid.

Key Points:

• Ukraine will reject any peace deal negotiated without its participation.
• Zelensky recounted a phone conversation with Trump, labeling Putin as untrustworthy.
• Zelensky believes Putin might be intimidated by Trump’s willingness to push for negotiations.
• Upcoming talks between U.S. officials and Russian representatives in Saudi Arabia could signal a breakthrough.
• A proposal to exchange U.S. investment in Ukraine’s mineral resources for security guarantees was declined by Ukraine.
• Discussions at major security conferences indicate broader international interest in resolving the conflict.

Why did Zelensky refuse to use a broken pencil in negotiations? Because he didn’t want to settle for a pointless deal!
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