Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed on Tuesday that representatives from US President Donald Trump's team are scheduled to visit Ukraine later this week. The visit is set to occur before the Munich Conference, which commences on Friday, Zelenskyy informed reporters in the capital, Kyiv, following a meeting with Nadia Calvino, head of the European Investment Bank. Zelenskyy mentioned plans for discussions at the conference with US Vice President JD Vance and Trump's team, while his own team will engage in separate talks with US officials.

According to Anadolu Agency, Trump had earlier confirmed that his special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, Keith Kellogg, is expected to visit Ukraine soon. When questioned in the Oval Office about Kellogg's impending visit, Trump affirmed it. Additionally, Trump stated that he would "probably" speak with Zelenskyy during the week. He expressed belief that both Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin are interested in reaching a deal, emphasizing the importance of negotiations.

Trump reiterated his previous assertion that the Russia-Ukraine conflict would not have erupted if he had been in office. When asked about potential discussions with Putin, Trump remained vague, indicating ongoing group talks but not divulging specifics. He underscored the necessity of cooperation to achieve a resolution, citing a desire to save lives as a motivating factor.

Despite previous suggestions of reducing aid to Ukraine, Trump has recently demanded access to Ukraine's rare minerals as a condition for continuing US aid. This development adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing diplomatic engagements between the US and Ukraine.