WASHINGTON, D.C. – US President Donald Trump has hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House for a pivotal bilateral summit and the signing of a historic minerals agreement.
Trump greeted Zelensky outside the West Wing, shaking his hand and acknowledging the gathered audience. Dressed in his signature dark blue suit, white dress shirt, and red tie, Trump stood beside Zelensky, who opted for an all-black ensemble.
The two leaders entered the White House shortly after 11 a.m. on Friday.
Ukraine to Share 50% of Its Rare Minerals with the US
During the meeting, Zelensky expressed confidence in Trump’s support, stating, “I believe Trump is on our side.” He also emphasized the need to halt Russian President Vladimir Putin, adding, “I want to discuss what the US will be ready to do.”
A major outcome of the summit is Ukraine’s agreement to allocate 50% of its rare minerals to the United States.
These resources form a significant part of Ukraine’s national wealth and are crucial for the production of electric vehicles, nuclear energy, and technology manufacturing.
The US-Ukraine minerals agreement, which has been developing since Trump took office, aims to strengthen bilateral economic ties while addressing Ukraine’s post-war financial recovery.
A preliminary document outlines the establishment of a jointly managed investment fund, with Ukraine contributing half of its future revenues from rare minerals.
Security and Peace Talks Amid War Concerns
Beyond the economic agreement, the summit also focused on Ukrainian security. As Kyiv continues to push for US-backed security guarantees, concerns remain over a potential peace plan. Many Ukrainians worry that a rushed peace deal with Russia could leave their country vulnerable to future invasions.
Trump has positioned the minerals deal as a way for Ukraine to compensate the US for the billions in wartime aid provided under former President Joe Biden.
Under the agreement, Ukraine’s retained revenue will be allocated toward developing and monetising public and private assets, including minerals, hydrocarbons, oil, natural gas, infrastructure, and state-owned enterprises.
Zelensky acknowledged the significance of this arrangement, stating earlier in the week, “This may be part of future security guarantees, but I want to understand the broader vision. What awaits Ukraine?”
International Involvement and Ukraine’s Rich Mineral Reserves
The summit has also garnered attention from European leaders. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron have expressed willingness to deploy peacekeeping forces if a truce between Russia and Ukraine is reached, ensuring long-term stability in the region.
Ukraine is home to some of the world’s most valuable mineral resources, including graphite, uranium, titanium, and lithium—a crucial component for electric vehicle batteries.
The country holds Europe’s largest lithium reserves, making it a key player in the global energy transition.
Other valuable elements in Ukraine, such as lanthanum and cerium (used in televisions and lighting) and erbium and yttrium (essential for nuclear power and laser technology), further underscore the strategic importance of its resources.
According to Forbes, Ukraine’s untapped mineral wealth is valued at more than £12 trillion.
US and European Aid to Ukraine
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the US, EU, UK, and Germany have pledged hundreds of billions in aid to support Kyiv’s defense and recovery. The United States leads in contributions, with an estimated £120 billion in assistance, significantly outpacing European allies.
As discussions continue, the White House summit underscores the strategic partnership between the US and Ukraine, with economic collaboration and security assurances remaining at the forefront of bilateral relations.
