In a high-stakes meeting at the White House on February 28, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky engaged in a heated exchange that led to the collapse of a proposed partnership over Ukraine’s natural resources. The discussions, intended to finalize an agreement granting the U.S. access to Ukraine’s substantial rare earth and critical mineral reserves, devolved into a public confrontation. President Trump accused Zelensky of ingratitude for American support, stating, “But you’re either going to make a deal or we’re out. And if we’re out, you’ll fight it out. I don’t think it’s going to be pretty, but you’ll fight it out.”
The fallout from the meeting has strained U.S.-Ukraine relations and cast doubt on future cooperation. President Zelensky, upon returning to Kyiv without a signed agreement, reaffirmed Ukraine’s readiness to finalize the minerals deal, emphasizing the nation’s need for security assurances. He highlighted the ongoing conflict and the necessity for concrete support, stating, “What kind of diplomacy, JD, are you speaking about? What do you mean?”
You’re playing cards. You’re playing cards. You’re gambling with the lives of millions of people. You’re gambling with World War III. You’re gambling with World War III. And what you’re doing is very disrespectful to the country, this country, that’s backed you far more than a lot of people said they should have.
Trump said
Ultimately, the agreement was not signed. The joint press conference of both presidents was also canceled. Zelensky, contrary to plans, left the White House.