Pakistan, March 21 -- Ukraine is still in talks with the United States about a potential minerals deal. A foreign ministry spokesman confirmed on Friday that discussions are ongoing. The White House had previously stated that it had moved beyond just the economic deal framework and was now focused on peace between Ukraine and Russia.

President Donald Trump mentioned on Thursday that the U.S. would soon sign the minerals and natural resources deal with Ukraine. The talks have made progress, and Ukraine was ready to sign the agreement during discussions in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The negotiations in Jeddah were held between U.S. and Ukrainian officials last week.

However, U.S. officials requested additional consultations in Washington befor...