Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has proposed a partnership with the U.S. over Ukraine’s vast mineral resources, including rare earth elements, in exchange for security guarantees.
Speaking in an interview, he highlighted the strategic importance of these resources and their potential for U.S. investment. Zelenskiy emphasized that Ukraine was not giving away its resources but offering a mutually beneficial deal, saying, "The Americans helped the most, and therefore they should earn the most."
The strategic importance of Ukraine’s resources
Ukraine holds significant deposits of rare earths, titanium, and uranium, crucial for industries like aerospace, nuclear energy, and defence. However, about 20% of Ukraine’s resources, including half its rare earth deposits, remain under Russian occupation. Zelenskiy warned that Russia could exploit these resources with allies like North Korea and Iran, posing a strategic threat to the West.
Kyiv’s urgent security needs
As Russian forces continue their offensive in eastern Ukraine, Zelenskiy underlined the importance of securing international military aid and investment. He unfurled a classified map, illustrating Ukraine’s resource-rich areas, and stressed the need to protect critical regions such as Dnipro and central Ukraine from Russian advances.
Potential US energy partnership
In addition to mineral investment, Zelenskiy revealed ongoing discussions about storing U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) in Ukraine’s vast underground facilities. He expressed readiness to facilitate LNG contracts, positioning Ukraine as a key energy hub for Europe.
Meeting Trump before US-Russia talks
Zelenskiy stressed the urgency of meeting Trump before any U.S.-Russia negotiations. He insisted that Ukraine must be directly involved in discussions concerning its future, stating, "Otherwise, it will look like a dialogue about Ukraine without Ukraine."
Military developments and recruitment efforts
On the battlefield, Zelenskiy confirmed a new Ukrainian offensive in Russia’s Kursk region, marking a rare cross-border attack. He also noted that thousands of North Korean troops fighting for Russia had resumed combat. To address Ukraine’s manpower shortage, the government plans to introduce lucrative recruitment contracts for young men aged 18-24. However, Zelenskiy did not disclose expected enlistment numbers.
With Russia gaining ground and Ukraine pushing for stronger U.S. backing, Zelenskiy’s mineral partnership proposal seeks to strengthen Kyiv’s strategic position while securing vital support from its key ally.
Source: Reuters
Bd-pratidin English/Fariha Nowshin Chinika
