Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged the international community to invest in Ukraine’s vast mineral resources, highlighting the importance of partnerships rather than giving these resources away, especially amid discussions about military aid. His comments come after US President Donald Trump proposed a deal where Ukraine would offer “rare earths” and other resources in exchange for military support.
In a recent interview with Reuters, Zelensky emphasized that while Ukraine boasts significant mineral wealth, including large reserves of titanium and uranium—the largest in Europe—this should not mean handing them over without mutual benefit. “We have mineral resources. This does not mean that we give them away to anyone, even to strategic partners,” Zelensky stated on social media. “It is about partnership. Put your money in. Invest. Let’s develop this together and make money,” he added.
Trump had suggested the United States might secure Ukraine’s resources as part of a deal for continued military aid, particularly focusing on rare earth elements. These elements are crucial in the production of electronics, military technology, and renewable energy. In response, Zelensky made it clear that these resources hold great value, potentially worth “trillions of dollars,” and Ukraine sees them as integral to its security. “We must keep all this because these resources represent security guarantees,” he said, stressing the importance of ensuring they don’t fall into the hands of adversaries like Russia.
This proposal, however, has not been without controversy. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz criticized the idea, asserting that international support for Ukraine should not come with the expectation of compensation. “We are helping Ukraine without asking to be paid in return. This should be everyone’s position,” Scholz said in a statement to the RND media group on Saturday.
Meanwhile, US President Trump, who has previously suggested Ukraine negotiate directly with Russia to bring an end to the ongoing war, expressed his willingness to meet with both Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Although no official talks have been scheduled, Trump indicated that he would likely meet Zelensky in the coming week at a location outside of Ukraine. Zelensky also confirmed that the two nations were arranging meetings, with “details being worked out.”
As the war in Ukraine nears its third year, and with Russia making gradual advances in eastern Ukraine, Zelensky continues to stress the need for strategic international partnerships. His government remains focused on protecting Ukraine’s sovereignty and ensuring that the country retains control over its valuable resources.
This unfolding situation underscores the complex diplomatic and geopolitical dynamics surrounding Ukraine’s ongoing struggle for independence and its future relationships with key global powers.
