Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has extended an offer to U.S. President Donald Trump, proposing a partnership in Ukraine’s critical minerals sector in exchange for continued financial and security support. Speaking to Reuters on Friday, Zelenskiy emphasized Ukraine’s rich deposits of rare earths, titanium, and uranium, positioning the offer as a mutually beneficial deal for both nations.
With Trump advocating for a swift resolution to Ukraine’s ongoing war with Russia, Zelenskiy’s proposal aligns with Trump’s transactional approach to foreign policy. “If we are talking about a deal, then let’s do a deal, we are only for it,” Zelenskiy stated. However, he underscored that Kyiv is not offering to “give away” its resources but rather seeking a collaborative investment model where the U.S. would have priority access.
Ukraine possesses Europe’s largest reserves of titanium, a critical component for aviation and space technology, and extensive uranium deposits essential for nuclear energy. Zelenskiy also warned of the strategic risk posed by Russia’s control over approximately 20% of Ukraine’s mineral resources. He expressed concerns that Moscow could exploit these resources through alliances with adversaries such as North Korea and Iran.
As Russian forces continue their offensive in eastern Ukraine, Zelenskiy also revealed plans to store U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) in Ukraine’s vast underground facilities. “I know that the Trump administration is very interested in it … We’re ready and willing to have contracts for LNG supplies to Ukraine. And of course, we will be a hub for the whole of Europe,” he said.
The timing of this proposal is crucial, as the Munich Security Conference approaches from February 14-16. Zelenskiy emphasized the urgency of meeting with Trump before any potential U.S.-Russia discussions take place, warning against a scenario where negotiations occur “about Ukraine without Ukraine.” He confirmed ongoing contacts with Trump’s advisers Keith Kellogg and Michael Waltz, although specifics of a potential agreement are still under discussion.
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s military situation remains precarious. In a surprising development, Zelenskiy confirmed that Ukrainian forces had launched an offensive on Thursday, advancing into Russia’s Kursk region. Additionally, North Korean troops fighting alongside Russian forces have reportedly resumed combat.
To counter a manpower shortage, the Ukrainian government is set to launch recruitment contracts targeting young men aged 18-24, below the draft age. While Zelenskiy did not disclose expected enlistment figures, the initiative underscores Kyiv’s efforts to bolster its defenses amid growing battlefield pressures.
As diplomatic negotiations and military conflicts unfold, the outcome of Zelenskiy’s proposal to Trump could have significant implications for Ukraine’s security and economic future.
