Zelensky says ready for peace talks 'as soon as possible': Trump

WASHINGTON -- US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that he has received a letter from his Ukrainian counterpart saying that Kyiv is ready to enter peace negotiations without delay.

The "important letter" from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was received earlier in the day, Trump said when addressing a joint session of Congress, quoting the letter in part as saying: "Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer."

"Regarding the agreement on minerals and security, Ukraine is ready to sign it at any time that is convenient for you," Trump said Zelensky wrote.

Expressing appreciation for the letter, Trump added that "simultaneously, we've had serious discussions with Russia and have received strong signals that they are ready for peace."

Trump and Zelensky had a heated exchange at the White House on Friday, leading to the cancellation of an anticipated bilateral minerals agreement.