Tensions between Kyiv and Washington have reached new heights as Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky reportedly lashed out at US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent over demands that Ukraine hand over half of its critical minerals as compensation for American aid in the conflict with Russia. According to the Financial Times (FT), the incident occurred during a closed-door meeting on February 12, marking a significant turning point in the relationship between Ukraine and its key Western backer.

During the meeting in Kyiv, Zelensky reportedly became visibly frustrated when Bessent pressed for an immediate agreement on the resource deal. The FT cited an anonymous source who claimed that “the gravelly voice shouting from inside was unmistakable,” indicating that the Ukrainian president had lost his temper. The source further described Zelensky as “very angry” at the demand that Ukraine hand over 50% of its critical mineral resources to the United States in exchange for continued support.

Bessent, who had traveled to Kiev to push for the deal, reportedly left the meeting in a “flustered” state, with his hands “trembling.” However, sources close to the US Treasury Secretary later downplayed this characterization, telling the Daily Mail that while there was definite tension, Bessent was not as shaken as reports suggested.

The crux of the disagreement lies in Washington’s insistence that Ukraine must........

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