Zelensky's adviser sought mineral deal despite opposition

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's chief of staff pushed for a signing of a mineral rights deal with the U.S. in the Oval Office, despite advice from Trump's envoy, Keith Kellogg, to strengthen relations first. After intense negotiations, a deal was nearly finalized, but tensions escalated during the signing meeting, leading to a heated exchange between Zelensky, Trump, and Vice President JD Vance. Zelensky was ultimately removed from the White House. Zelensky's cabinet ratified the mineral agreement in Kyiv, but the signing did not occur after the Oval Office incident. The situation has left Ukraine's leadership in a difficult position regarding U.S. relations amid ongoing conflict with Russia.