EconomyPoliticsWar Trump needs Ukrainian pure assets in trade for continued US weapons. Tuesday, February 4, 2025

President Donald Trump stated his administration needs an settlement with Ukraine wherein the war-torn nation will present entry to its uncommon earth assets in return for the US’ help in its protection towards Russia. “We’re trying to do a cope with Ukraine the place they’re going to safe what we’re giving them with their uncommon earth and different issues,” Trump stated on the White Home. “We wish a assure. We’re handing them cash, hand over fist.”

Based on varied estimates, Ukraine holds vital mineral deposits with an estimated worth of over $26T, making it a major participant within the international provide chain. The nation boasts roughly 20,000 mineral deposits, masking 116 forms of minerals, together with titanium, lithium, beryllium, manganese, gallium, uranium, zirconium, graphite, apatite, fluorite, and nickel. China at the moment dominates the manufacturing and sale of uncommon earth metals, a bunch of minerals which are key to inexperienced vitality and superior weapons, amongst different makes use of. Globally, China controls about 70% of output and over 90% of refining.