Ukrainian President Zelensky is pushing to appeal to Donald Trump's penchant for a deal. The US president, whose administration is pressing for a rapid end to Ukraine's war with Russia, said on Monday (February 3) he wanted Ukraine to supply the US with rare earths and other minerals in return for financially supporting its war effort.
"If we are talking about a deal, then let's do a deal, we are only for it," Zelensky said, emphasising Ukraine's need for security guarantees from its allies as part of any settlement.
Ukraine floated the idea of opening its critical minerals to investment by allies last autumn, as it presented a "victory plan" that sought to put it in the strongest position for talks and force Moscow to the table.
Zelensky said less than 20 per cent of Ukraine's mineral resources, including about half its rare earth deposits, were under Russian occupation.
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