Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that there is no clause regarding NATO membership in the rare earth element agreement with the US. Zelensky also emphasized that Russia continues to target energy infrastructure, advocating for increased sanctions. It was suggested that a Russian official would visit Washington for the first time since the beginning of the Ukraine War.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky hosted German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock in the capital, Kyiv. Following the meeting, Zelensky announced during a joint press conference that a meeting with military officials from countries willing to send troops to Ukraine as a security guarantee will take place on Friday. The Ukrainian leader also addressed the NATO issue concerning the rare earth element agreement with the US.

“NATO Issue Not Included in Agreement” Zelensky stated, “There is no mention of NATO in the agreement. There never has been. Are we tying this to the European Union? Yes, we are. When talking about this agreement, we cannot contradict our efforts towards future EU membership.”

“RUSSIANS TARGETING ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE” Additionally, Zelensky revealed that Russia continues to attack energy infrastructures, saying, “We will present the relevant reports to the American side.” The Ukrainian President also mentioned that Russian leader Vladimir Putin does not want to end the war, highlighting the need for increased sanctions against Russia.

“FIRST RUSSIAN OFFICIAL TO VISIT US” American news outlet CNN International reported that a top Russian official is expected to visit Washington this week. The individual identified is Kirill Dmitriev, appointed as Russia’s Sovereign Wealth Fund Director, and is expected to meet with President Donald Trump’s Special Envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff. This meeting, focusing on the Ukraine War and bilateral relations, will mark the first visit from Moscow to Washington since the war began.