Vice President JD Vance has emphasized the importance of a U.S.-Ukraine critical minerals deal as a more practical deterrent against Russian President Vladimir Putin compared to an international security force proposed by key allies Britain and France. Vance highlighted that access to Ukraine's critical minerals would provide a stronger security guarantee than deploying troops from countries that have not been in conflict for decades.
This stance has once again underscored the differing viewpoints between President Donald Trump and U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron. While the European leaders advocate for a post-conflict peacekeeping force in Ukraine to prevent future Russian invasions, Vance believes that securing economic interests is the key to deterring Putin.
Vance acknowledged the historical contributions of Britain and France in supporting the U.S. in various conflicts over the past two decades. However, he maintained his skepticism about the effectiveness of a potential peacekeeping mission in Ukraine.
The comments from Vance were made prior to a White House official confirming that Trump had directed a pause in U.S. assistance to Ukraine to pressure Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to engage in negotiations with Russia. This move followed Trump's frustration with Zelenskyy's remarks indicating a distant resolution to the conflict.
During Zelenskyy's recent visit to the White House, a deal granting the U.S. access to Ukraine's critical minerals was expected to be finalized as a form of repayment for American aid during the war. However, the plan was abandoned after a tense exchange between Trump, Vance, and Zelenskyy.
Ukraine is known to possess significant deposits of minerals crucial for industries such as aerospace, electric vehicles, and medical manufacturing, including titanium, lithium, and manganese. Despite the setback, Trump remains optimistic about reaching an agreement and views the pact as a means to strengthen U.S.-Ukrainian relations in the long run.
While Starmer acknowledges the value of a mineral deal, he asserts that it alone cannot ensure Ukraine's security. He advocates for U.S. support for European forces on the ground through aerial intelligence, surveillance, and rapid-response capabilities in case of truce violations.
