Ukraine's President Zelensky to Visit Washington for Rare Earth Minerals Deal

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will travel to Washington on Friday to finalize a deal with the United States on rare earth minerals. The deal is expected to bring significant financial benefits to the US, according to President Trump.

However, President Trump has cautioned that the US will not offer substantial security guarantees to Ukraine under any peace deal. He believes that European nations should take on the responsibility of ensuring Ukraine's security, given their proximity to the region.

President Zelensky has confirmed that an economic framework agreement with the US is ready, but crucial security guarantees remain unresolved. These guarantees are considered vital by Ukraine.

Meanwhile, Russia has voiced strong opposition to the proposed European peacekeeping force in Ukraine. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has dismissed it as a "deceit" intended to escalate the conflict.

The peacekeeping force, initially proposed by French President Emmanuel Macron and supported by UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, is intended to provide security against future Russian aggression.

Following his meeting with President Trump, President Zelensky is expected to travel to London for talks with European leaders over the weekend.