Trump pushes for $500b in rare earths from Ukraine for continued aid

Trump pushes Ukraine for $500B in rare earths, citing U.S. support in ongoing conflict

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US President Donald Trump has demanded that Ukraine provide $500 billion worth of rare earth minerals as compensation for continued American support in its ongoing conflict with Russia.

In an interview with Fox News that aired late Monday, Trump emphasized that the US should receive a share of Ukraine's vast natural resources to offset the hundreds of billions of dollars spent on aiding Kyiv's defense against Russia's invasion.

“I told them [Ukraine] that I want the equivalent of $500 billion worth of rare earth, and they’ve essentially agreed to do that so at least we don’t feel stupid,” Trump said. “We can’t continue to pay this money without getting something in return.”

Ukraine is rich in vital minerals, including lithium, titanium, coal, oil, gas, and uranium, though much of these resources are located in areas under Russian control. Trump has previously expressed a desire to access Ukraine's mineral wealth as part of his broader strategy to gain a competitive edge over China in the global race for critical resources.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has proposed allowing the US to develop his country's natural resources as a means of securing continued American support.

In a recent interview, Zelenskyy reiterated that the US should benefit the most from Ukraine's recovery.

“The Americans helped the most, and therefore the Americans should earn the most,” Zelenskyy said on Friday. He added that he hopes to discuss the matter with President Trump directly.

Trump’s comments have drawn criticism from European leaders, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who described the former president’s approach to foreign policy as “very egotistic, very self-centered.”

Earlier this month, Trump had expressed his interest in striking a deal with Ukraine, stating, "We’re looking to do a deal with Ukraine where they’re going to secure what we’re giving them with their rare earths and other things."