'We are ready'. Zelenskyy says Ukraine and US set to sign minerals deal

The Ukrainian President made this statement following a dispute with American leader Donald Trump and US Vice President JD Vance during a conversation with the media in the Oval Office.

"We are ready for this," Zelenskyy said in response to a question about the rare earth minerals agreement, which was expected to be signed during his visit to Washington but was ultimately canceled.

"This will be the first step to security guarantees," he said in the interview.

Also, Zelenskyy answered whether Ukraine can hold out without US assistance.

"It will be difficult without your support, but we cannot lose our values," the head of state said.

Speaking about the next steps, Zelenskyy explained that the US wanted this agreement (on minerals), Ukraine is not against it, but Kyiv wants to understand what role security guarantees will play in the deal.

He also commented on when the agreement might be signed.

"I think the ministers have to sign (minerals deal - ed.). I don’t know when they will do it. It depends on the American side," the Ukrainian President stated.

Zelenskyy left the White House early

Earlier today, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with the US President at the White House. During their conversation with journalists, a dispute arose between the two leaders. Trump quickly lost his temper and raised his voice, accusing Zelenskyy of lacking gratitude for US assistance.

The American leader also issued an ultimatum, demanding that Zelenskyy agree to a peace deal, warning that otherwise, the US would not participate in peace negotiations.

Following this heated exchange, Zelenskyy left the White House ahead of schedule, and as a result, the mineral resources agreement was canceled.