The US has presented Ukraine with a revised agreement concerning the management of its natural resources, demanding a joint investment fund overseen by a US-majority board. This significantly expands upon a previous proposal, granting Washington veto power and priority access to revenues and infrastructure projects. Ukrainian officials have strongly criticized the agreement as unfair and potentially detrimental to their sovereignty, citing concerns about resource control and financial dependence on the US. While the deal currently excludes nuclear assets, the possibility of future negotiations regarding nuclear energy infrastructure remains a concern.
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Following the Saudi Arabia peace talks, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer warmly welcomed the developments, emphasizing the need for renewed efforts towards a lasting peace in Ukraine. He stressed that Russia must agree to a ceasefire and an end to hostilities, stating that the onus is now on Russia to act. Starmer plans a weekend meeting with leaders to determine next steps in achieving a just and permanent resolution to the conflict. The UK stands ready to assist in bringing about a peaceful conclusion that secures Ukraine’s freedom.
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Following a meeting in Jeddah, the U.S. and Ukraine announced a resumption of intelligence sharing and security assistance to Ukraine. Both nations agreed to pursue a 30-day ceasefire contingent upon Russian reciprocity, and will immediately begin negotiations toward a lasting peace, involving humanitarian efforts like prisoner exchanges. The U.S. committed to discussing peace proposals with Russia, while Ukraine emphasized the need for European involvement. Finally, both countries agreed to collaborate on developing Ukraine’s critical mineral resources.
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Following a tense Oval Office meeting, US and Ukrainian officials met in Jeddah to attempt to repair relations and discuss peace. The talks, attended by Senators Rubio and Waltz, yielded no immediate public statements beyond expressions of hope for constructive outcomes. Ukraine’s recent drone attacks on Moscow, while seemingly undermining peace efforts, were arguably intended to strengthen their negotiating position. Simultaneously, growing distrust among Ukrainians toward the US administration’s perceived pro-negotiation stance with Russia fueled concerns over the potential concessions Ukraine might be pressured to make.
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Following a US halt to intelligence sharing, Russia launched a massive missile and drone attack across Ukraine, targeting energy and gas infrastructure. The attack coincided with Ukrainian officials’ travel to Saudi Arabia for peace talks, and came amidst escalating US hostility toward Ukraine, including the termination of US military supplies and satellite image access. Reports indicate that these actions have negatively impacted Ukraine’s military capabilities, while North Korean troops reportedly made advances in eastern Ukraine. Despite these setbacks, Ukraine continues to defend itself and pursue peace negotiations.
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A Kyiv International Institute of Sociology poll reveals a significant increase in Ukrainian trust in President Zelenskyy, rising from 57% in early February to 68% by March 4th. This surge followed strained US-Ukraine relations and a White House disagreement. The positive shift in public opinion is consistent across all regions of Ukraine, although slightly lower in the east. The poll, conducted via telephone with a sample of 1,029 respondents, shows a considerable widening of the trust-distrust gap.
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President Macron will address the French nation tonight regarding global uncertainty stemming from the dramatic shift in US-Ukraine relations under President Trump. This announcement follows a tense meeting between Trump and Zelensky, after which Zelensky called for a sea and sky truce. Macron welcomed Zelensky’s willingness to re-engage in dialogue with Trump, emphasizing France’s commitment to lasting peace in Ukraine. The French government views the resumption of US-Ukraine dialogue, potentially facilitating a minerals deal, as positive for achieving a lasting peace.
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Following a U.S. pause on military aid, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy directed his defense minister and other officials to obtain precise information from their American counterparts regarding the aid’s status. Zelenskiy emphasized the critical nature of the U.S.-Ukraine partnership for ending the war and regretted the recent strained exchanges with U.S. officials. He reiterated Russia’s unchanging demands for Ukrainian concessions, including territorial surrender and constitutional changes, which he asserted Ukraine would resist. Zelenskiy ultimately expressed confidence in a dignified Ukrainian peace secured through national unity.
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The proposed U.S.-Ukraine natural resources agreement, intended to aid Ukraine’s post-war recovery, is currently stalled. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz stated that resumption of negotiations hinges on Ukrainian President Zelenskyy publicly expressing regret over a past incident and committing to the deal. A White House official confirmed this condition, requiring an on-camera apology from Zelenskyy. While Zelenskyy indicated willingness to proceed, the deal remains contingent upon fulfilling this U.S. prerequisite.
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Following a heated Oval Office confrontation, the Trump administration is reportedly demanding an apology from Ukrainian President Zelensky. The exchange stemmed from Zelensky questioning Vice President Vance’s diplomatic approach to Putin, prompting Trump to accuse Zelensky of reckless actions. Despite the incident, Zelensky refused to apologize, maintaining his position and expressing hope for continued US-Ukraine relations. International support for Ukraine remains strong, with several leaders publicly reaffirming their commitment to Kyiv. A planned EU summit will discuss potentially massive increases in aid to Ukraine.
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John Q. Hosedrinker