Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is facing pressure to negotiate with the US regarding access to Ukraine’s valuable minerals. This comes from Mike Waltz, a national security adviser in the White House, who expressed frustration over Zelensky’s recent refusal to share these resources.
During a recent briefing, Waltz revealed that Zelensky had turned down offers related to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals. These minerals are crucial, not only for their economic value but also for their role in technology and renewable energy. The US sees a potential exchange where access to these resources could come in return for military and financial aid.
These minerals, including lithium and titanium, are part of a much larger collection of natural resources in Ukraine, such as coal, gas, oil, and uranium. The US believes that securing a deal would provide Ukraine with the stability it needs during its ongoing conflict with Russia.
Despite this, Zelensky has firmly stated he won’t “sell our state.” He expressed willingness to create an “investment and security agreement” with the US to help end the war. This indicates his focus on long-term stability for Ukraine rather than short-term exchanges.
In a meeting in Kyiv with Keith Kellogg, the US special envoy, Zelensky aimed to discuss critical issues. However, the outcome of that meeting was overshadowed by a tense political backdrop. Kellogg’s visit was intended to listen to Ukraine’s needs but ended with a media conference cancellation. Speculations grew about why this happened, with some Ukrainian officials believing he had been sidelined by the White House.
Zelensky later shared online that he and Kellogg had an in-depth conversation about the war situation, including efforts to bring back prisoners of war and establish security guarantees. However, the political atmosphere remains charged, especially after comments made by former President Donald Trump, who has criticized Zelensky in recent communications. These exchanges reveal a complex relationship between Ukraine and the US, especially concerning foreign policy and the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Amidst these discussions, there is growing concern in Ukraine about being left out of major decisions. The US has been in talks with Russia without Ukraine’s direct involvement, raising fears about what this could mean for Ukraine’s future in the negotiations.
The ongoing war began with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine three years ago, following the annexation of Ukrainian territory. As discussions continue, the dynamics between the US, Ukraine, and Russia will be crucial in determining the path forward for peace and stability in the region.
