Fri Feb 28 20:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Trump Welcomes Zelensky Amidst Rare Earth Deal and Peace Talks
**Washington D.C.** – President Donald Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House Friday, a meeting coinciding with ongoing US efforts to secure a rare earth minerals deal with Ukraine. The visit comes amidst intensified international discussions regarding ending the Russia-Ukraine war.
Trump’s welcoming remarks included a lighthearted comment on Zelensky’s attire. The President’s seemingly softer stance towards Zelensky contrasts with previous comments, and follows recent White House visits by other world leaders focused on the conflict.
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, during a Thursday visit to the UK, indicated that Trump believes a resolution to the war is imminent, suggesting either a swift agreement or no agreement at all. Sunak emphasized the UK’s commitment to supporting peace efforts, stating his country is prepared to provide military support as part of a broader allied strategy.
French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent White House visit also focused on peace negotiations. However, Macron stressed that any peace agreement must not involve Ukrainian surrender and must guarantee Ukrainian sovereignty. Trump reportedly indicated agreement with Macron on the urgency of ending the conflict. The rare earth minerals deal with Ukraine is expected to further strengthen US-Ukraine ties.
First Piper 