Washington: U.S. National Security Advisor Michael Waltz has criticized Ukraine’s recent comments on Washington, calling them “unacceptable,” and urged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to soften his rhetoric and sign a mineral resources agreement with the United States.
In an interview with Fox News, Waltz stated, “We are witnessing setbacks on all fronts… They need to soften their tone and carefully consider signing this [minerals] agreement.”
Waltz was referring to a proposal under which the U.S. would gain access to Ukraine’s rich natural resources in exchange for continued military aid for its defense.
Zelensky previously rejected the deal, arguing that it does not provide necessary security guarantees for Ukraine. However, Waltz maintained that the mineral agreement would not only boost U.S. investment in Ukraine but also offer the country “the best possible security guarantee.”
These developments come amid growing concerns in Kyiv and among European allies following reports of Washington and Moscow initiating direct talks, an effort spearheaded by U.S. President Donald Trump. Fears are mounting that these discussions could pressure Ukraine into making concessions to Russia.
Waltz’s comments coincided with a high-level meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov engaged in significant discussions on the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Neither Ukrainian nor European officials participated in the Riyadh talks, though U.S. officials assured that they would be included in future negotiations aimed at ending the deadliest conflict in Europe since World War II.
Following Zelensky’s rejection of the mineral deal, President Trump labeled him a “dictator.” In response, Zelensky accused Trump of being misled by inaccurate information.
When asked whether a resolution to the ongoing conflict was feasible, Waltz responded, “I believe so… If we signal that the nature of future assistance will change, I don’t think that would be an insult to anyone.”
He dismissed claims that Ukraine was being sidelined in Washington-Moscow negotiations, emphasizing that “numerous discussions and engagements” were taking place, with Kyiv and its European allies set to participate in future talks.
“This is a straightforward plan. They may not like it, but we will implement it. Once the war ends, silence will prevail,” Waltz added.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin welcomed the U.S.-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia, describing them as the “first step” towards improving strained relations between Washington and Moscow. He noted that without strengthening mutual trust, resolving key issues—including the Ukraine conflict—would be impossible.
Speaking in a televised address, Putin expressed optimism about a potential meeting with former President Trump but stressed that such a meeting should be arranged in a way that ensures tangible outcomes.
