WASHINGTON, April 18 — U.S. President Donald Trump appeared to soften his stance on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky yesterday, saying he does not hold him responsible for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, though he continued to offer sharp criticism of the pro-Western leader.
WASHINGTON, April 18 — U.S. President Donald Trump appeared to soften his stance on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky yesterday, saying he does not hold him responsible for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, though he continued to offer sharp criticism of the pro-Western leader.
Trump, who has repeatedly and falsely claimed that Ukraine initiated the conflict, recently accused Zelensky of being accountable for “millions” of deaths.
“I don’t hold Zelensky responsible, but I’m not exactly happy that the war started,” Trump said during a press conference at the White House alongside visiting Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. “I’m not blaming him, but I wouldn’t say he’s done a great job. I’m not a big fan.”
Zelensky, in a CBS interview earlier this week, invited Trump to visit Ukraine to witness the destruction firsthand. Trump responded by lashing out at the network, following previous tensions that included a heated exchange at the White House in February involving Trump, Zelensky, and U.S. Vice President JD Vance.
Prime Minister Meloni reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, saying, “We’ve been defending Ukraine’s freedom together. Together, we can build a just and lasting peace.”
Despite political friction, Trump announced that a long-anticipated agreement with Ukraine on strategic minerals could be finalized next week. The deal, which was delayed after February’s confrontation, aims to tap into Ukraine’s valuable resources.
“We have a minerals deal that I believe will be signed next Thursday,” Trump said. “I expect them to honor the agreement. We’ll see.”
Ukraine’s Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko confirmed via X (formerly Twitter) that Kyiv had signed a “Memorandum of Intent” with Washington for an “Investment Fund for the Reconstruction of Ukraine,” though details were not disclosed.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told AFP that the deal is targeted for finalization on April 26. — AFP
MANCHESTER, April 28 — Manchester United moved closer to securing Champions League qualification with a 2-1 victory over Brentford on Monday, but interim manager Michael Carrick said the team must continue pushing to finish as high as possible in the Premier League.
TEHRAN, April 28 — Iran on Tuesday said the United States is no longer in a position to dictate terms to other nations, as Washington reviews a new Iranian proposal concerning the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
MECCA, April 28 — Haj pilgrims have been reminded not to let social media distract them from the true purpose of their journey in the Holy Land.