The White House national security adviser, Mike Waltz, has just announced that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to sign a minerals agreement with the United States very soon.
This deal is part of a broader effort to end the war with Russia and could have significant implications for the global supply of critical minerals.
What’s at Stake?
The proposed partnership would give the US access to Ukraine’s vast deposits of critical minerals, including aluminum, gallium, and titanium.
These minerals are essential for advanced technology manufacturing, such as semiconductors, and have significant military applications.
The deal could also help American taxpayers recoup some of the $175 billion invested in Ukraine’s defense.
A Heated Dispute
The announcement comes amid a public feud between Zelenskyy and former President Donald Trump.
Waltz has told Fox News that Zelenskyy needs to “tone it down” and sign the proposed agreement. Trump has made unfounded claims that Zelenskyy “started” the war, prompting Zelenskyy to accuse Trump of being caught in a “disinformation bubble.”
Negotiations Intensify
Despite the tensions, Waltz claims that negotiations to end the conflict are progressing. He says that Russian President Putin and Zelenskyy have credited Trump’s leadership as crucial to the peace process.
The US is also stepping up diplomatic engagement with European leaders, with French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expected to visit Washington soon.
Controversy at CPAC
The announcement was made at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), which has been marred by controversy.
French far-right leader Jordan Bardella cancelled his speech after former Trump aide Steve Bannon finished his speech with a gesture resembling a Nazi-style salute.
Trump’s Position
In a recent Fox News radio interview, Trump downplayed Zelenskyy’s importance in peace negotiations, saying “I don’t think he’s very important to be at meetings.”
He also expressed regret over a recent trip to Ukraine to negotiate the rare earth minerals proposal, calling it a “wasted trip.”
The US-Ukraine minerals deal could have significant implications for the global economy and the ongoing conflict with Russia. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.