Mandelson Calls for Ukrainian Ceasefire and Trump's Minerals Deal, Sparking Controversy

Mandelson Calls for Ceasefire and Trump's Minerals Deal

Peter Mandelson, the UK ambassador to the US, has sparked controversy with his remarks on the ongoing war in Ukraine. He called for a ceasefire initiated by Ukraine and urged President Zelensky to back Donald Trump's minerals deal.

Mandelson's comments came after a tense meeting between Zelensky and Trump, which reportedly ended with the Ukrainian president being asked to leave the White House without signing a deal granting the US access to Ukrainian minerals.

The ambassador argued that a "very radical reset" is needed, with the US and Ukraine getting back on the same page. He believes Zelensky should unequivocally support Trump's initiative for ending the war and bringing peace to Ukraine.

Mandelson also suggested that Ukraine should be the first to commit to a ceasefire, challenging Russia to follow suit. He further advocated for European backing of the ceasefire calls.

His remarks have drawn criticism from some quarters, with Labour MP James Cleverly pointing out that the UK ambassador is supposed to communicate the government's opinion, not his own. Armed forces minister Luke Pollard also distanced the government from Mandelson's stance, emphasizing that finding a lasting peace remains the priority.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has called for a "coalition of the willing" to form an alternative peace plan to present to the US. He stressed the need for Europe to take the lead in these efforts.

The war in Ukraine continues to be a complex and evolving situation, with various actors and perspectives involved. It remains to be seen how the international community will respond to Mandelson's controversial remarks and how the conflict will ultimately be resolved.