Zelenskyy sings ratified minerals deal with US, open to Trump mediating Russia talks - Monday brief
Russia's leader Vladimir Putin (Photo: Getty Images)
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a law on the ratification of rare earth metals between Ukraine and the United States. Zelenskyy also stated that he is ready to ally with Russian dictator Vladimir Putin.
Read more about what happened on Monday, May 12.
Ukrainian President speaks with newly elected Pope
Today, May 12, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke for the first time with the newly elected Pope Leo XIV. Among the issues raised was Russia's illegal deportation of Ukrainian children.
Zelenskyy said the conversation with the newly elected Pope was warm and substantive. He thanked him for his support for Ukraine, his call for a just and lasting peace for Ukraine, and the release of prisoners.
Among other things, the President and Leo XIV spoke about the Russian illegal deportation of Ukrainian children. Kyiv, as Zelenskyy noted, is counting on the Vatican's assistance in returning them home.
Ukraine ratifies deal with US: Zelenskyy signs bill into law
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed the law ratifying the agreement between the governments of Ukraine and the United States on rare earth metals, according to the website of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine (Ukrainian Parliament - ed.).
The document was approved by the Verkhovna Rada during a session on Thursday, May 8, with 338 MPs voting in favor.
Russia defies European ultimatum over ceasefire, pushes for Istanbul negotiations
The Kremlin does not accept ultimatums on the issue of a ceasefire with Ukraine and insists on the resumption of direct negotiations in Istanbul without preconditions, according to the spokesman of the Russian dictator Vladimir Putin, Dmitry Peskov.
"This language of ultimatums is unacceptable for Russia. It does not suit. One cannot speak to Russia in such a tone," said the Kremlin spokesman.
He emphasized that Russia is committed to negotiations in Istanbul without any preconditions.
Polish carriers begin border blockade with Ukraine: How traffic at checkpoints changes
Polish carriers have launched a protest near the Yahodyn-Dorohusk checkpoint on the border between Poland and Ukraine.
According to border officials, from 4:00 p.m. Kyiv time, Polish carriers began a protest near the Dorohusk checkpoint, across from the Ukrainian Yahodyn checkpoint.
Zelenskyy awaits Trump at negotiations with Putin: 'We can change a lot'
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy supports the idea of US President Donald Trump taking part in possible negotiations between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded to Trump’s statement that he could travel to Istanbul for negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. According to him, these are very important words.
