Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has confirmed engaging in discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the possibility of Ukraine sharing rare earth minerals with the United States. Zelenskyy mentioned that the topic was initially raised during a meeting with President Trump in September. Trump expressed his interest in Ukraine supplying rare earth minerals to the U.S. as a form of repayment for the financial assistance provided by Washington to Kyiv in its conflict with Russia.
Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine is willing to explore potential collaborations with partners who are assisting in defending their territory and pushing back the enemy through various means, including weapons, presence, and sanctions. Ukrainian media reports indicate that Ukraine emphasized the condition that the resources’ location must remain under Kyiv’s control for the U.S. to have future access, requiring security assurances.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov responded, suggesting that Trump’s proposal signifies a shift in the U.S.’ willingness to offer free support to Ukraine. Tymofiy Mylovanov, a former Ukrainian economy minister, highlighted that Ukraine has more to offer to the U.S. compared to Russia, emphasizing that Putin lacks substantial offerings beyond flattery and insincerity.
Mylovanov further mentioned that discussions between Kyiv and Washington have included various sectors such as defense technology, logistics, ports, agriculture, and manufacturing. The support from the U.S. during the conflict in Ukraine, now approaching its third year, began under the administration of former President Joe Biden and may see adjustments under Trump’s leadership.
Zelenskyy revealed ongoing dialogues with Trump’s national security adviser, Mike Waltz, and Keith Kellogg, the designated special envoy to Ukraine. Plans are underway for a U.S. delegation to visit Ukraine. The relationship between Zelenskyy and Trump dates back to Trump’s initial term, with a controversial phone call between them leading to Trump’s first impeachment trial, where he was ultimately acquitted.
The conflict in Ukraine, which began with Russia’s invasion in February 2022, has resulted in significant civilian casualties. Recent attacks in Izium led to five deaths and 55 injuries, with Zelenskyy quoting figures indicating the toll on Ukrainian soldiers. The ongoing fighting has claimed thousands of lives, with differing estimates on casualties.