Trump-Zelenskyy White House Talks Collapse Amid Heated Dispute Over Mineral Deal

A White House meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, aimed at securing a deal for American access to Ukraine’s rare mineral rights, devolved into a heated exchange. The meeting ended abruptly, with Trump declaring the proposed deal off.

The discussions turned combative when Zelenskyy referenced Russia’s 2014 invasion of Crimea, prompting Vice President JD Vance to accuse him of conducting a “propaganda tour.” Trump criticized Zelenskyy for not showing enough gratitude for U.S. aid and warned against prolonging the conflict, stating, “You’re gambling with the lives of millions of people. You’re gambling with World War III.”

Zelenskyy left the White House early, and a scheduled joint press conference was canceled. Later, Trump told reporters the talks “didn’t work out exactly great” and suggested the deal was stalled due to Zelenskyy’s reluctance to seek peace. The proposed agreement would have granted the U.S. co-ownership and management of a postwar reconstruction fund for Ukraine, with 50% of future revenues from Ukraine’s natural resources allocated to the fund.

Despite the breakdown, Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to the American people on social media, affirming Ukraine’s commitment to achieving a just and lasting peace. In an interview, he voiced hope for salvaging the U.S.-Ukraine partnership but called for Trump to be “more on our side.”

The meeting’s fallout sparked political reactions. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jefferies emphasized Ukraine’s fight for democracy, while Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson praised Trump’s stance as putting America first. Russian officials welcomed the collapse of talks, with Dmitry Medvedev describing the outcome as a “proper slap down” for Zelenskyy.

European leaders, including EU High Representative Kaja Kallas, reaffirmed their support for Ukraine, vowing to step up assistance against Russian aggression. The incident marks the first White House meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy, underscoring the strained relations as Trump pursues direct negotiations with Russia without involving Kyiv or European allies.