Zelenskyy Signs Minerals Deal with US, Considers Trump for Mediated Russia Talks – Monday Brief

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed legislation for the approval of an agreement on rare earth metals trade between Ukraine and the United States. He also expressed his readiness to form an alliance with Russian leader Vladimir Putin.

Find out more details about the events of Monday, May 12.

The Ukrainian President converses with the recently elected Pope.

On May 12, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine had his first conversation with the recently elected Pope Leo XIV. They discussed various topics, including Russia’s unlawful relocation of Ukrainian children.

Zelenskyy described the discussion with the recently elected Pope as friendly and substantial. He expressed gratitude for his backing of Ukraine, his appeal for a fair and enduring peace for the country, and the freeing of detainees.

Among other things, the President and Leo XIV spoke about the Russian illegal deportation of Ukrainian children. Kyiv, as Zelenskyy noted, is counting on the Vatican's assistance in returning them home.

Ukraine approves agreement with US: Zelenskyy enacts legislation

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has approved the legislation that ratifies the accord between the Ukrainian government and the U.S. administration concerning rare earth elements, as reported on the Verkhovna Rada’s official site (the Ukrainian Parliament – editor).

The document was approved by the Verkhovna Rada during a session on Thursday, May 8, with 338 MPs voting in favor.

Russia disregards European deadline on truce, aiming for talks in Istanbul

According to Dmitry Peskov, the spokesperson for Russian leader Vladimir Putin, the Kremlin refuses to entertain any ultimatums regarding a ceasefire with Ukraine. Instead, they advocate for unconditional direct talks in Istanbul, as stated by Peskov.

"This language of ultimatums is unacceptable for Russia. It does not suit. One cannot speak to Russia in such a tone," said the Kremlin spokesman.

He emphasized that Russia is committed to negotiations in Istanbul without any preconditions.

Polish carriers begin border blockade with Ukraine: How traffic at checkpoints changes

Polish carriers have launched a protest near the Yahodyn-Dorohusk checkpoint on the border between Poland and Ukraine.

According to border officials, from 4:00 p.m. Kyiv time, Polish carriers began a protest near the Dorohusk checkpoint, across from the Ukrainian Yahodyn checkpoint.

Zelenskyy awaits Trump at negotiations with Putin: 'We can change a lot'

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy supports the idea of US President Donald Trump taking part in possible negotiations between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded to Trump’s statement that he could travel to Istanbul for negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. According to him, these are very important words.