Trump wants to exchange Ukrainian rare earth elements for US aid

3 February 23:45

Washington is considering the possibility of exchanging rare earth metals from Ukraine in exchange for further support for the country. This was stated by US President Donald Trump, Komersant ukrainskyi reports citing AFP News Agency.

“We are seeking to conclude an agreement with Ukraine that will provide for the supply of rare earth elements and other useful resources in return for our support,” Trump said during a briefing in the Oval Office.

He also emphasized that there has been significant progress in the peaceful settlement of the war in Ukraine. However, he did not provide specific details.

What is known about rare earth metals in Ukraine

It should be noted that rare earth metals play an important role in modern industry, in particular in the production of electronics, military equipment, and alternative energy sources. Ukraine has significant reserves of such resources, which can become a strategic factor in negotiations between states.

Experts estimate the value of Ukraine’s mineral resources at about $14.8 trillion, Forbes reported. They noted that more than 70% of the total amount falls on only three regions – Donetsk, Dnipro and Luhansk.

“Coal accounts for 62% of the total value of mineral resources, iron ore for 14%, and each of the other assets for less than 5%. The total volume of minerals is 111 billion tons,” the statement said.

Today, according to Forbes, this amount has grown to almost $15 trillion. At the same time, more than 70% of the total amount is accounted for by only three regions – Donetsk, Dnipro and Luhansk. Coal accounts for 62% of the total value of mineral resources, iron ore for 14%, and each of the other assets for less than 5%. The total volume of mineral resources is 111 billion tons.

In general, according to experts, Ukraine has reserves of non-ferrous and rare earth metals, including beryllium, zirconium, tantalum, and a complex of phosphorus rare earth and rare metal ores.

Last year, Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko said that Ukraine has the largest reserves of lithium, titanium, and significant deposits of other minerals in Europe.

Дзвенислава Карплюк
Editor