Trump Signals End to Ukraine Intel Freeze, Optimistic on Saudi Talks

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that the U.S. has "just about" ended its suspension of intelligence sharing with Ukraine. This move follows the recent halt in U.S. military aid to Kyiv, which had put Ukrainian defenses at risk amid ongoing Russian missile strikes.

The freeze on intelligence sharing, confirmed by CIA Director John Ratcliffe, was intended to pressure Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy into negotiating peace with Russia. As key talks between U.S. and Ukrainian officials are set to take place in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, Trump remains optimistic about progress.

“We’re going to make a lot of progress this week,” Trump said, emphasizing the potential for a breakthrough. The discussions will also touch on a pending minerals agreement between Washington and Kyiv, which would grant the U.S. access to Ukraine’s critical resources. Originally set for signing before Zelenskiy’s White House visit turned contentious, the deal remains in limbo.

Trump suggested Ukraine is likely to sign the minerals accord, though he stressed that Kyiv must demonstrate a stronger commitment to peace. “They will sign the minerals deal, but I want them to want peace… They haven’t shown it to the extent they should,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Trump’s administration is considering tariff measures against Russia and monitoring joint military exercises involving Russia, China, and Iran.

The outcome of this week’s talks in Jeddah could significantly shape Ukraine’s future relations with both the U.S. and Russia, while also determining the fate of the minerals deal and potential U.S. security guarantees.