By The South Asia Times

WASHINGTON - US President Donald Trump continues to press Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to provide the United States with key minerals as a means to secure Washington's backing and repay its wartime aid by Kyiv.

Ongoing Negotiations Between the U.S. and Ukraine

Zelenskyy’s chief of staff stated on Sunday that he had engaged in constructive discussions with senior U.S. officials regarding a potential deal to develop Ukraine’s mineral resources. However, no agreement has been finalized yet. The negotiations come amid Ukraine’s ongoing struggle to sustain its war effort and economic stability, increasing its dependence on Western support.

Why the U.S. Wants Ukrainian Minerals

Ukraine possesses vast reserves of rare earth elements (REEs), crucial for various industries. According to Ukraine’s Institute of Geology, the country holds lanthanum and cerium, used in TVs and lighting; neodymium, essential for wind turbines and EV batteries; and erbium and yttrium, which have applications in nuclear power and laser technology. These resources make Ukraine an attractive partner for the U.S., which has been actively seeking alternatives to reduce its dependence on China, the world's largest supplier of REEs.

Geopolitical and Economic Implications

The U.S.'s interest in Ukrainian minerals reflects broader geopolitical concerns. China currently dominates global rare earth production, controlling nearly 60% of the world’s supply. Securing a stable and alternative source of REEs from Ukraine would not only bolster American national security but also provide Kyiv with much-needed financial and strategic support. However, any agreement could provoke tensions with China and Russia, both of whom have vested interests in Ukraine and its resources.

In addition to geopolitical implications, the deal could play a critical role in shaping Ukraine’s post-war economic recovery. A structured agreement with the U.S. would attract investments in mining infrastructure, boost employment opportunities, and help Ukraine position itself as a key supplier in the global REE market. However, concerns remain about potential environmental impacts, regulatory challenges, and the risk of external control over Ukraine’s resources.

Future Prospects

While negotiations are ongoing, analysts predict that any deal will involve stringent conditions, ensuring U.S. companies gain long-term access to Ukraine’s resource wealth. Moreover, the Ukrainian government must navigate domestic opposition and international scrutiny to balance economic gains with national interests.

As Washington and Kyiv continue talks, the outcome of these negotiations could have far-reaching effects on global energy security, defense industries, and geopolitical alliances. The international community will closely watch how Ukraine manages its valuable mineral wealth amid its pressing wartime needs and long-term economic aspirations.