Ukraine, US hold talks on defense, sanctions, and minerals
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Ukraine's chief of staff arrives in Washington to push for more US military aid, tighter Russia sanctions, and progress on a Ukraine-US minerals deal.
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US President Donald Trump, right, meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Oval Office at the White House, Friday, Feb. 28, 2025, in Washington. (AP)
A senior Ukrainian delegation arrived in Washington on Tuesday to advance discussions on defense cooperation, sanctions against Russia, and strategic investment in Ukraine’s mineral sector, according to top government officials.
Andriy Yermak, the chief of staff to President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, confirmed his arrival in Washington alongside Ukraine’s first deputy prime minister and other senior officials.
The delegation's visit follows a second round of peace talks with Russia in Istanbul that yielded little progress.
"We will actively promote issues that are important for Ukraine. Our agenda is rather comprehensive," Yermak said on the Telegram messaging app.
According to Yermak, the delegation intends to focus on military aid, the ongoing situation on the battlefield, and coordinated efforts to tighten sanctions on Russia.
Ukraine has remained heavily dependent on US military support amid its prolonged conflict with Russia. Officials say the Washington visit aims to ensure continued defense backing and reinforce Ukraine’s position in the face of potential Russian advances.
Ukraine pushes for stronger US sanctions on Russia
Yermak indicated that Kiev would press the United States to adopt tougher sanctions if Moscow continues to stall in peace negotiations.
President Zelensky has consistently urged the Trump administration to increase economic and political pressure on Russia to accelerate diplomatic progress.
The talks will also include discussions on the bilateral minerals deal signed earlier this year, which grants the United States preferential access to Ukrainian mineral resources. The deal also lays the groundwork for an investment fund aimed at supporting the reconstruction of Ukraine’s damaged infrastructure and industrial base.
Ukraine and Russia remain far apart on key issues after two rounds of peace talks held in Istanbul. With diplomatic breakthroughs appearing unlikely, Ukraine is leaning heavily on strategic partnerships with Western allies, particularly the United States, for military, economic, and political support.
