Michael Waltz, the national security adviser to President Donald Trump, expressed the White House’s sense of “frustration” concerning President Volodymyr Zelensky and the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
“It’s clear that there’s a lot of frustration on our side,” Waltz remarked during a Fox News interview on Thursday.
When inquired about the potential for rapprochement between Trump and Zelensky, Waltz answered, “Oh, I believe that’s possible,” emphasizing that Trump has expressed his affection for the Ukrainian people.
Kellogg’s meeting with Zelensky: On Thursday, Waltz delivered a message to Trump’s special envoy to Ukraine and Russia, Keith Kellogg: “It’s time to sign the deal.”
“Lower the rhetoric and proceed with signing the economic opportunity deal; just sign the deal,” Waltz urged UJ from the White House.
Kellogg is set to meet with Zelensky in Kyiv on Thursday, following a public breakdown in relations between Trump and his Ukrainian counterpart, raising questions about the prospects for diplomatic peace talks.
UJ had previously reported that the proposed White House agreement suggests claiming 50 percent of Ukraine’s rare earth mineral revenues as repayment for previous aid, without assurance of future help.
When asked if this directive was given to Kellogg, Waltz quickly responded, “He’s discussing multiple topics, but I believe that would represent a significant leap forward.”
This article has been updated to include additional comments from Waltz.
