Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed his willingness to work under US President Donald Trump's leadership to achieve lasting peace as the war with Russia continues. His statement came just a day after Trump suspended US military aid to Ukraine in an effort to push Kyiv toward negotiations.

"No one wants an endless war. Ukraine is prepared to engage in peace talks as soon as possible. My team and I are ready to collaborate with President Trump to secure a lasting peace," Zelenskyy wrote on social media.

On Monday, the Trump administration announced a temporary halt to military assistance for Ukraine, stating that the aid would remain suspended until Kyiv demonstrates a clear commitment to negotiations. The move followed growing tensions between Trump and Zelenskyy over the US’s continued support for Ukraine.

Zelenskyy outlined potential initial steps toward peace, suggesting an immediate exchange of prisoners and a ceasefire in the air and at sea. He emphasized that Ukraine would halt missile and drone strikes on civilian infrastructure if Russia reciprocated, adding, "We aim to move swiftly through each stage of the process and work closely with the US to establish a solid and lasting peace agreement."

The decision to pause US aid came shortly after a tense Oval Office meeting in which Trump and Vice President JD Vance criticized Zelenskyy for what they viewed as a lack of gratitude for the $180 billion in US military support provided since the start of the war. During the meeting, Zelenskyy reportedly questioned Trump's stance on Russia, which led to his abrupt dismissal from the room.

Reflecting on the encounter, Zelenskyy admitted that the meeting had not gone as expected. "It is unfortunate how things unfolded at the White House. It is time to move forward constructively," he stated.

The two leaders were initially set to finalize an agreement on rare-earth minerals, a deal that Ukraine hoped would secure further security assurances from Washington. However, the tense exchange cast uncertainty over the agreement.

"Ukraine is ready to sign the deal at any time, in any format. We view this agreement as an important step toward stronger security and long-term stability, and I genuinely hope it will be implemented effectively," Zelenskyy said.

Relations between Trump and Zelenskyy have grown increasingly strained as the US administration pivots toward a more conciliatory approach with Moscow. In recent weeks, Washington and Moscow have signaled an intent to restore diplomatic ties, with a key focus on ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict.