Ukrainian Zelenskyy Rejects Mineral Proposal From US

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has rejected a proposal that would grant the United States access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals, citing insufficient security guarantees for his nation.

Quick Takes

Zelenskyy halted a deal offering U.S. access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals as compensation for security support.
The proposal, led by former U.S. President Donald Trump, lacked adequate security guarantees for Ukraine, per Zelenskyy.
A U.S. official criticized Zelenskyy’s decision as “short-sighted,” claiming it would ensure lasting partnership and peace.
Ukraine holds significant reserves of titanium and iron ore, crucial for technology products.
The decision reflects ongoing tensions in aligning strategic and security objectives between Kyiv and Washington.

Zelenskyy Rejects Mineral Access Deal

At the Munich Security Conference, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he has advised his ministers against approving a proposal that would grant the United States access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals. The deal, which was seen as a form of repayment for U.S. security assistance, was discussed with U.S. Vice President JD Vance but ultimately rejected due to concerns over insufficient security guarantees for Ukraine.

The proposal, spearheaded by former U.S. President Donald Trump, aimed to secure American access to Ukraine’s valuable mineral resources. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had drafted an agreement that would have granted the U.S. 50% ownership of Ukraine’s rare earth minerals. However, Zelenskyy expressed reservations about the deal’s ability to protect Ukraine’s interests.

Zelenskyy tells aides to reject U.S. pitch for 50% of Ukraine’s rare earth mineralshttps://t.co/yoNVgEopWn

— MSNBC (@MSNBC) February 17, 2025

Zelenskyy’s Concerns and U.S. Response

Zelenskyy’s decision to halt the proposal stems from his belief that it does not adequately protect Ukraine’s national security or sovereignty. In a statement explaining his position, the Ukrainian President said:

“I didn’t let the ministers sign a relevant agreement because in my view it is not ready to protect us, our interest.”

This move has not been well-received by some U.S. officials. A senior White House official labeled Zelenskyy’s decision as “short-sighted,” suggesting that it would have ensured a lasting partnership and peace between the two nations. Another U.S. official emphasized the potential benefits of the deal, stating:

The Stakes: Ukraine’s Mineral Wealth

Ukraine’s decision carries significant implications due to its vast mineral resources. The country holds substantial reserves of titanium and iron ore, which are crucial components in many technology products. However, it’s worth noting that many of these valuable deposits are currently located in areas under Russian control, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.

Trump had previously said that the U.S. aimed to acquire $500 billion worth of Ukraine’s minerals, suggesting that Kyiv had “essentially agreed to do so.” However, Zelenskyy’s recent actions indicate that no such agreement has been finalized.

This development highlights the ongoing challenges in aligning the strategic and security objectives of Kyiv and Washington. As the conflict with Russia continues, Ukraine must carefully balance its need for international support with the protection of its national interests and resources.