Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed readiness to sign a rare minerals deal with the United States during a press briefing in London. Zelensky, currently attending a crucial summit with European leaders in the UK, stated that both countries were prepared to finalize the agreement.
The proposed deal would grant the US access to Ukraine's reserves of rare-earth minerals, a move that could have significant implications for both nations. Zelensky had anticipated signing the agreement during his recent visit to Washington; however, the meeting was abruptly cut short following a heated exchange with President Donald Trump in the Oval Office.
During the White House encounter, Trump and Vice President JD Vance criticized Zelensky for his handling of American military support, accusing him of jeopardizing global stability and risking a potential conflict with Russia. Despite the tensions, Zelensky remains optimistic about the prospects of finalizing the minerals deal, emphasizing the importance of mutual cooperation between the two parties.
Trump has framed the minerals agreement as a means to recoup financial investments made in Ukraine under the Biden administration, highlighting the economic significance of the proposed partnership. As discussions continue between Ukrainian and US officials, the outcome of the rare minerals deal remains a topic of interest for international observers.
