Zelensky expected to sign mineral deal with US after initially refusing

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to sign a rare minerals deal with the U.S. after initially rebuffing demands from President Donald Trump as part of peace talks between Russia and Ukraine.

Trump is determined to end the horrific war in Ukraine which has claimed the lives of thousands of soldiers and cost American taxpayers billions in aid to Zelensky's war effort.

Initially, when Trump made demands for a mineral deal, it appeared that Zelensky was adamant about not agreeing to his terms. However, as of Friday night, Zelensky announced that teams of American and Ukrainian negotiators are indeed working on a draft deal.

Zelensky stated, "This is an agreement that can strengthen our relations, and the key is to work out the details to ensure its effectiveness. I look forward to the outcome -- a just result."

Trump wants $500 billion worth of minerals in exchange for continued military support, which is a huge departure from the previous administration's stance of unconditional aid to Ukraine.

Negotiations are still ongoing, and hopes of a quick deal were previously dashed, but it is likely that a full agreement will be reached in a matter of days. This is a massive win for Trump, as coming to terms on this issue is a big part of reaching a peace deal and finally ending the war.