Zelensky
What conditions has Ukrainian President Zelensky set for signing a peace agreement with Russia?
During a recent press conference, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that he would sign an agreement if Ukraine is provided safety and security guarantees. He communicated this position to Trump, indicating his willingness to participate in peace negotiations under specific conditions. While the US has yet to respond to Zelensky's requirements, diplomatic momentum is building. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer plans to visit Washington next week to meet with Trump to discuss elements of a lasting peace, suggesting growing international coordination on resolving the Ukraine conflict.
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WION
02:00 - 02:42
How much of Ukraine is currently occupied by Russia after three years of invasion?
Three years after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine began, Russia now occupies approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory. The occupation started with the full-scale invasion and has resulted in this significant territorial control by Russian forces. This occupation represents a substantial portion of Ukraine's sovereign territory and underscores the severe impact of the ongoing conflict. The territorial occupation has profound implications for Ukrainian civilians, who continue to grapple with loss, displacement, and uncertainty while maintaining hope for eventual peace and territorial integrity.
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Al Jazeera English
00:01 - 00:09
Why did President Zelenskyy refuse to allow ministers to sign an investment agreement regarding Ukraine's mineral resources?
President Zelenskyy refused to allow his ministers to sign the agreement because, in his opinion, it was not adequately prepared to protect Ukraine's interests. He emphasized that any investment deals concerning Ukraine's valuable mineral resources must be properly structured from a legal standpoint. Zelenskyy stressed the importance of securing investments in Ukraine, particularly in critical sectors like minerals, but insisted these agreements must be written 'legally, correctly' to safeguard national interests. His caution reflects Ukraine's vulnerable position amid ongoing conflict and global competition for access to the country's significant mineral wealth.
Watch clip answer (00:19m)
WION
01:47 - 02:07
What deal did the US propose to Ukraine regarding its mineral resources, and why was it rejected?
The US proposed a deal to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that would grant access to Ukraine's valuable mineral resources in exchange for continued military aid. This proposal aimed to secure access to Ukraine's estimated 111 billion tons of resources, including rare earth metals like neodymium and lanthanum that are crucial to global supply chains. However, Zelenskyy rejected the proposal, specifically citing concerns over the lack of adequate security guarantees for Ukraine. The Ukrainian president appeared to find the terms insufficient, suggesting that military support without stronger security assurances wasn't enough to justify granting access to the country's strategically important mineral wealth amid the ongoing conflict.
Watch clip answer (00:17m)WION
01:27 - 01:44
What is Emmanuel Macron calling for regarding Ukraine's security?
French President Emmanuel Macron is advocating for strong and credible security guarantees for Ukraine following an emergency meeting of European leaders in Paris. After discussions with US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, Macron emphasized that peace in Ukraine must be accompanied by robust security measures. This call comes amid ongoing tensions with Russia, highlighting Macron's strategic approach to ensuring lasting peace in the region through international diplomatic efforts. The French President's stance underscores the importance of solid commitments from Western allies to protect Ukraine's sovereignty.
Watch clip answer (00:25m)
WION
00:57 - 01:22
Why did President Zelensky reject the US proposal for access to Ukraine's mineral resources in exchange for military aid?
President Zelensky rejected the US proposal because he believed it lacked adequate security guarantees for Ukraine. In his own words, "I did not allow ministers to sign the agreement because it is not ready, in my opinion. It does not protect us, it is not ready to protect us, our interests." Zelensky's decision highlights his prioritization of Ukraine's national security and sovereignty amid the ongoing conflict. Despite the potential benefits of continued US military aid, he was unwilling to grant access to Ukraine's valuable mineral resources without solid assurances that would properly safeguard Ukrainian interests.
Watch clip answer (00:30m)
WION
01:27 - 01:57