**Ukraine Investigates Leaked Draft of Minerals Deal with U.S.**
The Ukrainian government is reportedly investigating the source of a leaked draft of the minerals deal between Ukraine and the United States. According to the Financial Times, the administration of President Volodymyr Zelensky has directed the security services to find the leakers.
As part of this investigation, polygraph tests are being used on individuals who had access to the deal across several government ministries. The details of the minerals deal have been a point of contention between Ukraine and the U.S., with President Donald Trump promoting it as a means of securing private industry investment in Ukraine’s resources. Critics, however, view it as “colonial pillaging” of Ukraine’s resources.
The negotiations on the minerals deal are ongoing, despite an earlier version falling apart early in March. Recently, Trump accused Zelensky of trying to back out of the deal.
**Russia’s Attack on Kryvyi Rih: A New Low**
On April 4, Russia launched a ballistic missile attack on the Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih, killing 19 people and injuring 68. This latest attack has been widely condemned by international leaders, including European Commission Vice-President Kaja Kallas.
The strike targeted a residential neighborhood, causing severe damage and setting buildings on fire. Local authorities reported that nine children were among those killed in the attack.
**NATO Demands Ceasefire Deal from Russia**
After convening in Brussels on April 3 and 4, NATO representatives are demanding an immediate response from Russian President Vladimir Putin to a ceasefire deal agreed upon by the U.S. and Ukraine. This comes as tensions between Russia and Western countries continue to escalate.
Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron is set to become Europe’s point person in negotiations with Putin, according to the Telegraph. Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal reported that over 35,000 square kilometers of previously mined territory have been cleared since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
**Other Developments**
In other news, Elon Musk‘s social media platform X may face fines exceeding $1 billion for allegedly violating the EU’s Digital Services Act. Kremlin negotiator Kirill Dmitriev has been visiting several countries to unlock frozen Russian assets.
Ukrainians who entered the U.S. after Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022 received emails saying that their legal status would be terminated, CBS News reported. Finland’s Defense Minister Antti Hakkanen warned that Europe cannot afford a disjointed transition in defense capabilities, which could provide Russia with an opportunity to exploit any gaps in the region’s security.
As tensions between Russia and Western countries continue to escalate, international leaders are calling for a ceasefire deal from Putin. It remains to be seen whether Russia will take steps towards peace or continue its aggressive actions.
**Commentary**
The leaked draft of the minerals deal between Ukraine and the U.S. highlights the complexities of international negotiations. The Ukrainian government’s investigation into the leak suggests that they are taking the situation seriously, but it is unclear what this means for the future of the deal.
Russia’s attack on Kryvyi Rih is a disturbing reminder of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The international community must continue to pressure Russia to adhere to ceasefire agreements and work towards a peaceful resolution.
The world waits with bated breath as tensions between Russia and Western countries continue to escalate. One thing is certain: the outcome will have far-reaching consequences for global politics and security.