U.S. Officials: No Minerals Deal Without Zelenskyy’s Public Apology

The United States is open to resuming negotiations on natural resources with Ukraine, but only if Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expresses regret, according to U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz speaking to Fox News on March 3.

“We need to hear from Zelenskyy that he regrets what happened, is ready to sign the minerals agreement, and participate in peace talks. This is not too big a request,” Waltz said.

According to one source, a White House official said the U.S. will not move forward with the minerals deal unless Zelenskyy issues a public on-camera apology for the incident.

On March 2, in London, Zelenskyy signaled a willingness to move forward despite a tense meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House.

“The agreement that’s on the table will be signed if the parties are ready,” Zelenskyy said.

The deal, aimed at supporting Ukraine’s post-war recovery while ensuring access to its significant mineral reserves, was expected to be finalized during Zelenskyy’s visit to Washington on Friday.