US President Donald Trump has expressed interest in a potential partnership with Russia to jointly develop the country’s rare-earth mineral deposits. The proposal was presented by Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier this week after a meeting with top officials and experts from the rare-earth metal industry.
Putin announced that Moscow is ready to collaborate with Washington on developing rare-earth mineral resources, particularly in regions like Donetsk, Lugansk, Kherson, and Zaporozhye, which are currently under Russian control. The Russian president emphasized that while Russia would prioritize its own development of these strategic resources, the country is open to working with international partners, including the United States, if there is mutual interest.
When asked about the possibility of such a deal, Trump confirmed his interest. “I’d like to buy minerals on Russian land, too, if we can... They have very good rare earths, also, and oil and gas. It’s a great thing,” Trump said during a press briefing at the White House. “It’s great for Russia, too, because we could do deals there. They have very valuable land that isn’t utilized. So something like that could take place, yeah.”
Trump’s administration has shown increased interest in rare earths and other critical metals, aligning with the president’s broader strategy to secure returns on US investments in the Ukraine conflict. Trump has been pushing for compensation in the form of natural resources, with demands for up to $500 billion in exchange for aid provided to Ukraine. Following multiple delays, Ukraine has reportedly agreed to the deal, with President Volodymyr Zelensky expected to visit Washington this Friday to finalize the agreement.
“I hear that he’s coming on Friday. Certainly, it’s okay with me if he’d like to sign it together with me, and I understand that’s a big deal, very big deal… the American taxpayer now is going to get their money back plus,” Trump added.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
