Rumors of Trump’s Moscow Visit Stir Controversy

The possibility of former U.S. President Donald Trump attending a parade in Moscow to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Russia’s victory in World War II has sparked widespread speculation and debate. The French weekly news magazine Le Point initially reported the rumors, citing anonymous sources, suggesting that Trump might join Russian President Vladimir Putin at the event. However, when questioned at the White House, Trump categorically denied the reports, stating, "No, no, I’m not. I’m not." This swift denial has only added to the intrigue surrounding the situation, as it remains unclear whether the rumors were entirely unfounded or if Trump simply chose not to confirm them publicly.

A Controversial Minerals Deal Strains U.S.-Ukraine Relations

In addition to the rumors about Trump’s possible Moscow visit, attention has also turned to a contentious minerals deal proposed by the U.S. government to Ukraine. The deal, presented to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent earlier in February, would grant the U.S. a 50% share of all revenues generated from Ukraine’s rare earth minerals and natural resources. U.S. officials have framed this arrangement as a form of payment for previous military support, but the terms have been met with fierce resistance from Zelenskyy.

During a White House press briefing, Trump expressed optimism about the deal, suggesting that Ukraine was receptive to the idea. "I think we’re pretty close, yeah. I think they want it," he said. However, Zelenskyy has publicly rejected the proposal, stating, "I can’t sell Ukraine," and arguing that the U.S. demand for $500 billion in mineral wealth is wildly disproportionate to the $67 billion in military aid provided since 2022. Zelenskyy has also criticized the lack of specific security guarantees from the U.S., further straining the relationship between the two nations.

Trump and Zelenskyy Engage in a War of Words

The tension between Trump and Zelenskyy escalated further when Trump suggested during a radio interview that Ukraine was not needed at ceasefire talks. "I don’t think he’s very important to be in meetings," Trump said of Zelenskyy, accusing him of mishandling the war and claiming, "They don’t have any cards." These remarks were met with a sharp rebuke from Zelenskyy, who accused Trump of being influenced by Russian disinformation. "He lives in a Russian ‘disinformation bubble,’" Zelenskyy said, emphasizing the need for Ukraine’s direct involvement in any peace negotiations.

The verbal sparring between the two leaders reflects deeper divisions in their approaches to the conflict. While Trump has appeared to downplay Ukraine’s role in resolving the war, Zelenskyy has consistently argued that his country’s sovereignty and security must be central to any negotiations. The exchange has also raised concerns among European allies, who are increasingly wary of Trump’s stance on Russia and his apparent willingness to sideline Ukraine in peace talks.

European Allies Rally Around Zelenskyy Amid Growing Tensions

As tensions between Trump and Zelenskyy continue to rise, European leaders have stepped up their support for Ukraine. In a show of solidarity, French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer are scheduled to visit Washington for separate talks with Trump. These meetings are expected to focus on ways to bring an end to the war in Ukraine, though Trump has dismissed the efforts of his European counterparts, saying they "haven’t done anything" to resolve the conflict.

Macron, who hosted a crisis summit in Paris earlier in the week, has been particularly vocal about the need for a unified approach to the conflict. Similarly, Starmer has emphasized the importance of maintaining strong international backing for Ukraine. Their visits to Washington come at a critical juncture, as concerns grow about the potential for peace negotiations that exclude Ukraine and favor Russian interests.

Diplomatic Efforts Intensify as War Drags On

Despite the challenges, diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine remain ongoing. Keith Kellogg, the White House’s Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia, recently held talks with Zelenskyy in Kyiv, praising him as an "embattled and courageous leader of a nation at war." Kellogg’s positive assessment of Zelenskyy stands in stark contrast to Trump’s criticisms, highlighting the internal divisions within the U.S. administration regarding its approach to the conflict.

As the war enters its third year, the international community is under increasing pressure to find a resolution. The planned visits by Macron and Starmer to Washington underscore the shared commitment of European allies to supporting Ukraine, even as differences with the U.S. persist. For now, the focus remains on maintaining unity and ensuring that any peace negotiations prioritize Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.