Trump Eyes Ukrainian Minerals in Exchange for U.S. Support, Peace Deal Efforts Intensify
Former President Donald Trump has signaled a potential shift in the U.S.-Ukraine relationship, suggesting a deal centered around Ukrainian mineral resources could be in the works. During a meeting with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday, Trump stated he anticipates Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will sign an agreement during their Friday visit to the White House, paving the way for U.S. involvement in developing Ukraine’s oil, gas, and rare earth mineral resources.
Trump framed the potential agreement as a mutually beneficial arrangement, where the U.S. gains access to crucial resources while simultaneously helping Ukraine rebuild after the conflict with Russia. The former president emphasized the deal would reimburse U.S. taxpayers for the substantial aid provided to Ukraine since the Russian invasion in 2022. Congress has appropriated $175 billion in aid to Ukraine.
"We’re going to be signing really a very important agreement for both sides, because it’s really going to get us into that country," Trump said, highlighting the economic opportunities for U.S. companies. "We’ll have a lot of people working there and so, in that sense, it’s very good."
The proposed minerals deal is reportedly linked to ongoing negotiations aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine war. Trump’s administration is purportedly seeking to secure access to Ukraine’s mineral wealth in exchange for the extensive support the U.S. has provided to the country. Trump depicted the agreement as a breakthrough that would not only benefit both nations economically but also lay the groundwork for a more sustainable and enduring relationship.
Beyond the economic aspects, Trump addressed the state of peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. He claimed the negotiations are in their final stages, but a definitive deal has not yet been reached. While optimistic about the prospects for peace, Trump hesitated to discuss plans for a peacekeeping force in the region until a formal agreement is signed.
"I think we’re very well advanced on a deal," Trump said. "But we have not made a deal yet. So I don’t like to talk about peacekeeping until we have a deal. I like to get things done."
Trump also expressed confidence in Russian President Vladimir Putin’s commitment to upholding any peace agreement reached. "I don’t believe he’s going to violate his word," Trump stated, adding, "I don’t think he’ll be back when we make a deal. I think the deal is going to hold now."
Notably, Trump refrained from reiterating previous critical remarks directed at Zelenskyy, including labeling him a "dictator." When questioned about his past comments, Trump seemingly backtracked, saying, "Did I say that? I can’t believe I said that. Next question."
Trump’s administration has been actively involved in brokering a peace deal to end the conflict in Ukraine. U.S. officials recently met with Russian counterparts in Saudi Arabia to discuss potential pathways to de-escalation. However, Ukraine’s exclusion from these talks has raised concerns, with Zelenskyy asserting that "nobody decides anything behind our back."
The relationship between Trump and Zelenskyy has seen its share of friction. The two leaders have publicly exchanged barbs, with Zelenskyy accusing Trump of promoting Russian "disinformation" and Trump criticizing Zelenskyy’s leadership. In a social media post, Trump wrote, "A Dictator without Elections, Zelenskyy better move fast or he is not going to have a Country left."
Despite the past tensions, the prospect of a minerals deal and a potential peace agreement appear to have brought the two leaders back to the table.
Russia has consistently called for Ukraine to hold elections as part of any peace settlement, particularly given that Zelenskyy’s five-year term was initially slated to end nearly a year ago. However, Zelenskyy has remained in power, citing the Ukrainian constitution’s prohibition on holding elections under martial law, which has been in effect since February 2022.
Adding another layer to the complex geopolitical landscape, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has indicated his country’s willingness to deploy troops to Ukraine if necessary to ensure a lasting peace. Starmer emphasized the importance of coordinating with the U.S. on peace negotiations to create a durable agreement.
French President Emmanuel Macron has also expressed support for collaborative efforts with the U.S. to achieve a lasting peace in Ukraine. However, Macron has urged caution in dealing with Russia, emphasizing the need for a substantial outcome that benefits Ukraine.
"We want peace," Macron said. "And I think the initiative of President Trump is a very positive one. But my message was to say be careful because we need something substantial for Ukraine."
Macron added, "I think the arrival of President Trump is a game-changer. And I think he has the deterrence capacity of the U.S. to reengage with Russia."
The potential minerals deal and the ongoing peace negotiations represent a critical juncture in the Russia-Ukraine war and could significantly reshape the geopolitical dynamics of the region. The outcome of Trump and Zelenskyy’s meeting on Friday will be closely watched by the international community.
