ALBAWABA - According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, he is prepared to resign from office if it ensures Ukraine's NATO membership. He also disclosed that an agreement that would grant the United States access to Ukraine's natural riches in return for security support is almost complete between Kyiv and Washington.
Zelensky said at a press conference in Kyiv on Sunday, "I am prepared to step down if peace in Ukraine is guaranteed and if it is really necessary. but NATO membership must be given to Ukraine in exchange. He went on to say that if necessary, he would be prepared to step down "immediately".
Speaking directly to US President Donald Trump, Zelensky urged him to do more than serve as a mediator and actively assist Ukraine in defending itself against Russia. According to him, "I need Trump to be more than just a mediator—this is not enough," emphasizing the necessity of specific security assurances.
"We need Trump to understand our position and provide tangible commitments to help Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression," he stated.
The president of Ukraine also affirmed that talks between Kyiv and Washington are progressing on a deal that would give the United States access to Ukraine's natural resources in return for security assurances. "We are making progress," Zelensky said, adding that earlier in the day, officials from both nations had spoken about the issue.
"The deployment of U.S. troops in Ukraine would be a logical step if the resource deal is formalized as part of security arrangements," he said. He also emphasized that Ukraine had not yet received the $15 billion in military assistance that the United States had originally pledged.
Trump's assertion that Ukraine owes the United States $500 billion for wartime aid was rejected by Zelensky, who said the amount was untrue. "I am not even prepared to discuss repaying $100 billion because part of that was a grant, not a loan," he stated.
"We received $100 billion from Washington, but I have no idea where Trump got the $500 billion figure from," he stated.
Meetings with foreign leaders who are in Kyiv on Monday, the third anniversary of Russia's invasion, might be a watershed moment for Ukraine's diplomatic efforts, Zelensky said. "We have an important summit tomorrow. We'll see, but it might be a tipping point. Twenty-four leaders will participate electronically, and thirteen leaders will be present in person," he said.
"Ukraine must be actively involved in any negotiations, and Europe should be represented at the table," he stated
