National Security Advisor Michael Waltz outlined the Trump administration’s frustrations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy following the breakdown of their Oval Office meeting, emphasizing efforts to broker an economic deal in exchange for U.S. support. Speaking on *Fox & Friends*, Waltz criticized Zelenskyy’s rejection of a proposed agreement granting the U.S. 50% ownership of Ukraine’s rare earth minerals, calling it an “incredible and historic opportunity” for security guarantees[4][10].
– The administration framed access to Ukraine’s titanium, iron, and uranium reserves as a sustainable alternative to military aid, arguing it would provide long-term stability and partnership. Waltz claimed this arrangement would be “the best security guarantee [Ukraine] could ever hope for”[4][10].
– Waltz accused Zelenskyy of “badmouthing” Trump publicly despite U.S. support, calling it “unacceptable.” He stressed that Ukraine needed to “tone down” criticism and reconsider the deal, which Trump viewed as critical to ending the war[4][9].
– The administration warned that Ukraine’s reluctance to sign the agreement risked losing U.S. backing. Waltz reiterated Trump’s ultimatum: “You’re either going to make a deal or we’re out”[1][6].
The confrontation underscored Trump’s transactional approach to foreign policy, prioritizing economic gains over traditional alliances. Critics, including bipartisan lawmakers, condemned the strategy as aligning with Russian interests, while Waltz defended it as a pragmatic path to peace[2][6].
