Ukraine’s rare earth minerals: Where are they and why does Trump want them?
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What are Ukraine’s rare minerals and why does Trump want them?
- Ukraine and the US are nearing a deal regarding Ukraine's rare earth minerals to secure US support amid the war.
- The US had initially sought half of Ukraine's revenues from critical minerals and key infrastructure through a joint investment fund.
- A preliminary agreement involves Ukraine contributing 50% of proceeds from state-owned mineral resources to a fund for Ukrainian projects, with a US commitment to back Ukraine's economic development.
- Ukraine possesses significant untapped deposits of critical minerals like lithium and titanium, estimated to be worth over £12 trillion, much of which are located in regions annexed or occupied by Russia.
- Zelensky is scheduled to meet with Trump to finalize the deal, but challenges remain, including regulatory hurdles, access to geological data, and security concerns for companies operating in Ukraine.