Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that there is no provision regarding NATO membership in the rare earth element agreement with the United States. Zelensky also emphasized that Russia continues to target energy infrastructure and called for increased sanctions against Russia. Allegations surfaced suggesting that a Russian official will visit Washington for discussions, marking the first visit by a Russian official since the beginning of the conflict in Ukraine.

Volodymyr Zelensky hosted German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock in the capital city of Kiev. During a joint press conference held after the meeting, Zelensky announced that a meeting with military officials from countries willing to send troops as a security guarantee to Ukraine would take place on Friday. The Ukrainian leader also addressed the NATO aspect related to the rare earth element agreement with the United States.

“NATO Issue Not Covered in Agreement” Zelensky stated, “The agreement does not mention NATO. It never has. Are we bound by the European Union? Yes. While discussing this agreement, it cannot contradict our efforts towards future EU membership.” He emphasized.

“RUSSIANS TARGETING ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE” Zelensky further revealed that Russia continues to attack energy infrastructure, saying, “We will present relevant reports to the American side.” The Ukrainian President expressed that Russian leader Vladimir Putin does not intend to end the war and underscored the necessity for increased sanctions against Russia.

“FIRST RUSSIAN OFFICIAL TO VISIT THE US” American news outlet CNN International reported that a senior Russian official is expected to visit Washington this week. The official identified as Kirill Dmitriev, who serves as Russia’s Special Representative for International Economic and Investment Cooperation and as Chairman of the Russian Direct Investment Fund. Dmitriev is anticipated to meet with President Donald Trump’s Special Envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff. This visit, focusing on the conflict in Ukraine and bilateral relations, will mark the first visit from Moscow to Washington since the conflict began.