By Sean Mueck
As the Ukraine War now stretches into its 3rd year, diplomatic efforts have once again renewed as it seems like a ceasefire may once again be in the works. Despite this, tensions still run deep. After the Oval Office meeting between Trump and Zelensky earlier this year where both JD Vance and Trump verbally berated Zelensky and accused him of starting the war, it is still clear that nothing is set in stone and everything is still subject to change. This is the current political state in the Ukraine War, as we know it.
United States and Ukraine Sign Resource Deal –
After a long period of waiting after initial tensions boiled over earlier this year, Ukraine and the United States have finally signed the long-awaited resource deal. This deal will allow Washington to have access to a portion of Kyiv’s minerals. In return, Ukraine will hope this new deal helps secure the United States’ unwavering support and an eventual ceasefire with security guarantees, which will ensure the war-torn Eastern European nation will not face further aggression.
In the near future, the United States will have access to one of the most minerally rich European countries. According to the BBC, Ukraine has 19 million tons of graphite, 7% of Europe’s titanium, 75% of Europe’s lithium, and other significant amounts of beryllium, uranium, copper, lead, and more.
On top of just minerals and rare earth metals, the United States will also be given joint access to Ukraine’s supply of oil and natural gas.
This deal pivots the Trump administration seemingly back to a pro Ukrainian position after previously seemingly growing ties with Russia after Trump made numerous comments sympathetic to Putin.
Russia Celebrates WWII Victory with Xi Jinping Present –
On Friday, May 9th, Russia celebrated their 80th anniversary of defeating Hitler and the Axis powers, winning WWII.
More than 11,000 Russian troops, 1,500 of whom fought in Ukraine, lined up and marched through Moscow’s Red Square.
Notably missing was the general topic of the current Ukraine War. Earlier, Ukraine attacked Russia with large swaths of drones, some even reaching into Moscow’s city limits. Despite this, a 72-hour ceasefire created by Putin has seemed to be accepted, as there were no reports of major drone attacks on the capital.
Even with Xi Jingping present, Russia seemed careful in bringing up the West and gave recognition over the Allies’ collective effort to win the war. Putin went on to state to the world that “We highly appreciate the contribution of the soldiers of the Allied armies, the members of the resistance, the courageous people of China, and all those who fought for a peaceful future to our common struggle.”
Despite this, Xi Jinping’s presence clearly expressed deepening ties with their Eastern neighbor.
North Korea Confirms Troops Sent to Fight in Ukraine –
For the first time, North Korea has officially confirmed troops were sent to fight alongside Russia in Ukraine. Despite strong evidence already being unearthed from defense and surveillance groups, this official announcement shows clearly how deep the relationship is between the two nations.
Putin released a statement thanking North Korea for their involvement and stated, “The Russian people will never forget the heroism of the DPRK special forces. We will always honor the heroes who gave their lives for Russia, for our common freedom, fighting side by side with their Russian brothers in arms.”
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