The Trump administration has proposed that the United States receive 50% ownership of Ukraine’s rare earth minerals. It also suggested deploying US troops to secure these resources if Ukraine reaches a peace deal with Russia, according to US officials cited by NBC News.
Instead of direct payment, the US expects this deal to compensate for the billions sent to Ukraine in military and financial aid since 2022, two officials said.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent presented the proposal to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv. He brought a draft agreement outlining the terms, according to sources familiar with the discussion.
US Seeks Strategic Access to Critical Resources
President Donald Trump has shown strong interest in securing access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals, vital for many technologies. In a Fox News interview, he claimed Ukraine had “essentially agreed” to the arrangement. He estimated the value of these resources at $500 billion.
Many of these minerals lie in areas controlled by Russian forces, according to US officials. Ukrainian authorities have discussed using critical resources to secure continued Western aid. Zelenskyy reportedly included this idea in his “Victory Plan.”
Zelenskyy did not sign the agreement immediately. He said he needed time to review the details and consult his advisors. At the Munich Security Conference, he referred to it as a memorandum, not a security deal. He stated that legal experts would assess it before making a decision.
Debate Over US Military Involvement
Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine’s survival depends on US military aid. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, he warned that without American support, Ukraine’s chances would be much lower.
US officials hold different views on military involvement. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth ruled out sending troops. However, Vice President JD Vance suggested that deployment remains possible if Russia does not negotiate a peace deal in good faith.
Trump Questions US Support for Ukraine
Trump has repeatedly criticised US spending on Ukraine. He called Zelenskyy “the greatest salesman of all time” for securing large sums from Washington. He argued that under his leadership, the US would avoid prolonged involvement in the conflict.
This proposal highlights the broader geopolitical and economic stakes. Control over Ukraine’s valuable resources remains a key issue in negotiations.
