Trump Ties U.S. Aid to Ukraine to Access Rare Earth Minerals

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In a controversial move, U.S. President Donald Trump has conditioned continued American support for Ukraine on access to its critical mineral reserves, according to comments made during a recent interview with Fox News. Trump claimed that the U.S. could potentially secure $500 billion worth of rare earth minerals, which are vital for various industries. "We want our money back," he stated, emphasizing that Ukraine must reciprocate for the military assistance provided.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz criticized this approach, calling it "very selfish." However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenski has indicated willing to negotiate terms that benefit both countries. During a trip to the U.S. in September 2024, Zelenski proposed a "victory plan" that included measures to strengthen Ukraine's defense and establish access for allied nations to Ukraine's mineral wealth, which includes important resources like titanium and lithium.

White House National Security Advisor Mike Waltz further confirmed that negotiations on U.S. military aid will depend on collaborations involving Ukraine's abundant natural resources. The geopolitical implications of these discussions come amidst ongoing military conflicts in the region.

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