- Zelenskiy offers Trump a mineral partnership.
- Ukraine wants security guarantees as part of any deal.
- Zelenskiy emphasizes the need to meet Trump before Putin.
- Ukraine proposes using its gas storage for U.S. LNG supplies.
Ukraine’s Mineral Treasure Trove: Zelenskiy’s Ace in the Hole
In a bid to woo former U.S. President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has dangled a tempting offer: a partnership to exploit Ukraine’s rich deposits of rare earths and other critical minerals. During an exclusive interview with Reuters, Zelenskiy showcased a once-classified map highlighting these resources, hoping to appeal to Trump’s deal-making instincts.
The Stakes: Security Guarantees and a Shift in Foreign Policy
With the war against Russia dragging on, Ukraine is desperate for security guarantees from its allies. Zelenskiy emphasized that any deal must include these guarantees to prevent future aggression. He’s also keen to speak with Trump before the former president has a chance to sit down with Vladimir Putin, fearing a dialogue about Ukraine without Ukrainian input.
Why Rare Earths Matter: A Geopolitical Chess Move
Zelenskiy pointed out that less than 20% of Ukraine’s mineral resources are currently under Russian occupation. Rare earths, crucial for manufacturing high-performance magnets and electronics, are a key component of this offer. Zelenskiy warned that if Ukraine falls, Moscow could potentially hand these resources over to U.S. adversaries like North Korea and Iran.
Ukraine’s Other Assets: Titanium, Uranium, and Gas Storage
Besides rare earths, Ukraine boasts Europe’s largest reserves of titanium, essential for the aviation and space industries, and uranium, used in nuclear energy and weapons. Additionally, Kyiv is proposing using its vast underground gas storage sites to store U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG), potentially turning Ukraine into a hub for European energy supplies.
Aligning with Trump’s Worldview: A Transactional Approach
Ukraine has swiftly adapted its foreign policy to align with the transactional worldview embraced by the former U.S. president. However, Zelenskiy stressed that Kyiv isn’t simply giving away its resources but offering a mutually beneficial partnership. He suggested that American companies should have priority in developing these resources, given the significant support the U.S. has provided.
The Road Ahead: Meetings, Negotiations, and a Broader Strategy
Zelenskiy plans to attend the upcoming Munich Security Conference, where Trump’s special envoy for Russia and Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, is also expected. He stressed the importance of the West developing a comprehensive strategy before engaging in talks with Moscow. Regular contacts are already underway between Zelenskiy’s team and Kellogg, as well as Trump’s national security advisor, Michael Waltz.
On the Battlefield: Offensives and Recruitment Efforts
While diplomatic efforts continue, the situation on the ground remains tense. Zelenskiy confirmed that Ukrainian troops have launched a new offensive into Russia’s Kursk region. He also acknowledged the return of North Korean troops to the front lines, fighting alongside Russian forces. To address manpower shortages, the government plans to launch lucrative recruitment contracts to entice young men into the armed forces.
Additional Information
Ukraine gained independence in 1991 after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Geological surveys conducted during the Soviet era revealed the extent of Ukraine’s mineral wealth. However, these surveys were taken back to Moscow, giving Russia detailed knowledge of Ukraine’s resources.
The Big Question: Will Trump Bite?
The success of Zelenskiy’s offer hinges on whether Trump sees the mineral partnership as a worthwhile deal. With the conflict in Ukraine at a critical juncture, the stakes are high. The world is watching to see if this unconventional approach can unlock a path to peace and security for Ukraine.
About The Author
