KYIV, Feb 24 (Alliance News): Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday he is willing to step down if it guarantees peace for Ukraine, even suggesting an exchange of his departure for the country’s NATO membership.
“If it means peace for Ukraine, if you need me to leave my post, I am ready,” Zelensky stated during a press conference, adding, “I can exchange this for NATO (membership) if that condition is there, immediately.”
His comments come amid rising tensions with US President Donald Trump, who has pushed for elections in Ukraine and labeled Zelensky a “dictator,” citing the expiration of his five-year term. However, Ukrainian law prohibits elections under martial law, which was imposed following Russia’s invasion in 2022.
Meanwhile, Zelensky rejected Trump’s demand for Ukraine to compensate the US with $500 billion worth of critical minerals for military aid.
He declined a recent US proposal granting Washington 50% access to Ukraine’s key resources, including lithium, uranium, and titanium, arguing it should include security guarantees.
“There cannot be any format which makes us debtors for the old aid given,” Zelensky said, vowing not to sign a deal that would burden future generations. However, negotiations are ongoing, with US and Ukrainian officials discussing a potential agreement.
Ukraine’s economy minister, Yuliia Svyrydenko, revealed that 18% of Ukraine’s Russian-occupied territory contains an estimated $350 billion in critical minerals. Chief of staff Andriy Yermak confirmed constructive talks with US officials on the matter.
