The relationship between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has taken a sharp turn for the worse following a disagreement over a proposed mineral rights deal. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently revealed that Trump is “very upset” with Zelensky, citing the Ukrainian leader’s apparent reversal on the agreement that would have granted the United States access to Ukraine’s extensive mineral resources.

The dispute marks a new chapter of tensions between Washington and Kiev, with Trump openly criticizing Zelensky’s leadership and handling of the ongoing conflict with Russia. On February 19, Trump accused Zelensky of being a “dictator without elections,” referencing Zelensky’s decision to postpone presidential elections due to martial law. While Moscow has declared Zelensky’s presidency illegitimate, asserting that Ukraine’s parliament should now hold authority, the Ukrainian leader maintains that elections cannot be held during wartime.

In an interview with journalist Catherine Herridge on February 20, Rubio detailed the circumstances that led to Trump’s frustration. “President Trump is very upset at President Zelensky-and rightfully so,” Rubio stated. The secretary of state expressed his own disappointment with Zelensky’s conduct during discussions regarding the mineral rights deal, suggesting that Zelensky had initially agreed to the partnership but later backtracked in public statements.

According to Rubio, US officials assured Zelensky that........

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