U.S. Congress slams mineral deal as exploitative, calls for increased pressure on Putin

This is stated in the congressman's statement on the House of Representatives website.

In a statement, Meeks said that with Donald Trump signing a predatory deal while Ukraine continues to defend itself against Russia’s illegal aggression. And he hope the administration now shifts its attention to the real barrier to peace: Vladimir Putin.

Meeks emphasized that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has repeatedly shown willingness to negotiate for lasting peace and now it’s time for Trump to pressure Putin where it matters.

He called on Trump to work with Congress to apply meaningful pressure on the Kremlin, warning that if Russia fails to make real concessions and engage in peace efforts, the U.S., alongside allies, must act decisively.

Meeks noted that this includes holding Russia accountable for war crimes, increasing security aid to Ukraine, strengthening sanctions, and financing Ukraine’s reconstruction using Russia’s frozen assets.

• On April 30, Ukraine and the United States signed an agreement to establish the Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund.