Sat Feb 15 16:49:25 UTC 2025: ## Zelenskyy Rejects Trump-Backed Deal with Russia, Demands Unified Western Front
**Munich, Germany –** Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Saturday rejected a proposed deal brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump that would grant the United States access to Ukraine’s vast natural resources. Zelenskyy stated the agreement lacked sufficient security guarantees for Ukraine and failed to adequately protect Ukrainian interests. He emphasized that no decisions regarding the conflict with Russia should be made without Ukraine and Europe’s direct involvement.
The controversial deal, which blindsided Ukraine’s European allies, would initiate talks between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the ongoing war. Zelenskyy expressed concern that Putin might exploit Trump for propaganda purposes, possibly inviting him to Moscow for the upcoming WWII victory parade.
Zelenskyy called for a unified Western front, criticizing what he perceived as a lack of joint strategy following a meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance. He insisted that any ceasefire must include powerful sanctions against Russia, strengthening of the Ukrainian army, and possibly the deployment of European peacekeepers. While open to discussions about granting access to Ukraine’s rare earth deposits in exchange for security support from the U.S., Zelenskyy stressed the need for concrete security guarantees.
Addressing European leaders, Zelenskyy urged a stronger, more unified response to the Russian threat, suggesting the creation of a European army to ensure the continent’s self-reliance and deter future aggression. He warned that Europe needs to act decisively and present a united front against Russian influence. The Ukrainian President’s statements highlight the ongoing tensions and disagreements over the path to peace in the ongoing conflict.
First Piper 