Trump's 'rare' price for US military aid to Ukraine called 'fair' by Zelenskyy
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Zelenskyy Says He's Ready to Make a Deal with Trump Over Rare Earths and Minerals
Above: Ukrainian Pres. Volodymyr Zelenskyy pictured on Feb. 6, 2025, in Kyiv, Ukraine. Image copyright: Yan Dobronosov/Global Images Ukraine/Contributor via Getty Images
The Facts
Ukrainian Pres. Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Friday he's prepared to strike a deal with US Pres. Donald Trump over Ukraine's rare earth and mineral stores.
"If we are talking about a deal, then let's do a deal," Zelenskyy told Reuters in an interview. "We are only for it."
The remarks came after Trump, speaking to reporters from the Oval Office on Monday, suggested that the US has access to the resources in exchange for continuing military aid.
The Spin
Pro-Trump narrative
The US gives Ukraine billions in military aid every year. It's only right that the US gets something in return for these contributions and Trump will achieve this as part of his America First policy.
Pro-Ukraine narrative
Ukraine is prepared to strike a deal on rare-earth minerals as long as it ensures the country receives the security it needs. These resources will not be given away but will be part of a mutually beneficial deal.
Pro-Russia narrative
The lion's share of Ukraine's rare-earth minerals lie in eastern areas that are no longer under Kyiv's control. Ukraine is making the US false promises in the hopes of continuing aid.