Trump Says Zelenskyy Sent Letter Proposing Peace Talks and U.S.-Ukraine Mineral Pact

During his address to Congress, U.S. President Donald Trump said he received a letter from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stating that Ukraine is ready to “sit at the negotiating table as soon as possible to achieve lasting peace” and sign the rare earth minerals agreement.

Referring to the war, Trump claimed that “2,000 people are being killed every week—Russians and Ukrainians” and questioned, “Do you want this to go on for another five years?”

According to Trump, Zelenskyy’s letter also read: “My team and I are ready to work under the strong leadership of President Trump to achieve lasting peace.”

It further stated: “We deeply appreciate everything America has done to help Ukraine maintain its sovereignty and independence. Regarding the mineral and security agreement, Ukraine is ready to sign it at any time convenient for you.”

Trump expressed gratitude for the letter, adding that “at the same time, we have had serious discussions with Russia and received strong signals that they are ready for peace.”

Meanwhile, Ukrainian Ambassador to the U.S. Oksana Markarova clarified that Trump was referring to Zelenskyy’s social media post rather than an official letter.

“In a very challenging situation, we are still moving forward, developing relations, and advancing our priorities,” Markarova said, adding that Trump read the message as part of his address.

Trump’s remarks come after U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent previously stated there were no plans to sign the mineral deal with Ukraine, despite earlier reports that the agreement was set for signing during Zelenskyy’s visit.