Trump told reporters on Sunday that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wants to back out of a rare earth mineral deal.
|Published March 31, 2025
In a recent press gaggle, former President Donald Trump made waves with claims that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is considering withdrawing from a critical minerals agreement with the United States. The deal, originally negotiated to secure American access to Ukraine’s rich deposits of rare earth minerals, has been a key part of U.S. strategic efforts to reduce dependency on China for these essential resources.
Kostiantyn Liberov/
Trump suggested that Zelenskyy’s reconsideration of the agreement could have “serious consequences” for Ukraine, though he did not specify what actions the U.S. might take in response. The former president framed the potential withdrawal as a sign of instability in the Ukrainian government, reinforcing his broader criticism of U.S. involvement in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
The mineral agreement was intended to foster closer economic ties between the two nations while bolstering Ukraine’s war-torn economy. However, experts have expressed skepticism about the feasibility of large-scale rare earth mining in Ukraine, citing limited infrastructure and outdated geological surveys. Despite these concerns, the agreement has been seen as a strategic win for the U.S. in countering China’s dominance in the rare earth supply chain.
Beyond foreign policy, Trump’s remarks also touched on a controversial domestic topic—his potential bid for a third presidential term. When asked whether he would seek reelection in 2028 if he were to win in 2024, Trump responded with a cryptic statement, suggesting that “people are talking about it” and that he would “have to see.” The remark has reignited debate over the constitutional two-term limit established by the 22nd Amendment, with critics warning that any attempt to override it would face significant legal and political hurdles.
Trump’s comments reflect his continued influence over Republican politics and international affairs. As the 2024 election approaches, his positions on Ukraine, global trade, and executive power are likely to remain focal points of discussion. Meanwhile, the future of the U.S.-Ukraine mineral deal remains uncertain, adding another layer of complexity to an already tense geopolitical landscape.
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