MP Merezhko calls Putin's offer to Trump "political bribe"

This was reported by Espreso correspondent Kateryna Halko.

"We will cooperate with the U.S. under any circumstances because they are our partners. Let’s not forget that there are many of our supporters in the United States, particularly in Congress and the presidential administration. But I see the situation as Putin trying to pull Trump to his side. It’s essentially a political bribe. He thinks he understands Trump's business mentality and transactional approach. Maybe Putin is counting on that," Merezhko stated.

He noted that there is currently a political game between Trump and Putin, the outcome of which remains unknown. However, in the MP's view, the symbolic gestures between the US and Russian leaders should not be given much attention; instead, focus should be placed on their actions.

"I’m confident that even an attempt to reach some agreement between the U.S. and Russia now would not be accepted by the U.S. Congress. If we look at Congress's history, it is a very independent political institution. There are two types of agreements: executive agreements that do not require Senate approval, and international treaties, which, under the Constitution, do. The two-thirds Senate vote serves as a filter or safeguard, ensuring that such agreements gain proper support. Therefore, I believe it's too early to discuss this seriously. As far as I know, negotiations regarding the mineral deal are still ongoing," Merezhko emphasized.

• Kremlin leader invited foreign partners, including the United States, to cooperate in the rare earth metals sector, offering to develop them in the occupied territories of Ukraine.