U.S. President Donald Trump announced that he would speak with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, on Tuesday to discuss the situation in Ukraine, with a particular focus on a potential sharing of rare earth resources. This conversation is part of efforts to establish a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, which Kyiv has already accepted under certain conditions. The discussions will primarily focus on the division of strategic territories, particularly those rich in rare minerals, and vital energy infrastructures for both parties.
Rare earth elements, essential for the production of advanced technologies and the energy sector, are among the key resources at stake in this conflict. Deposits of these materials, particularly in eastern Ukraine, are highly coveted. President Trump has mentioned the possibility of “sharing” these resources, stressing that discussions have already taken place with both sides. While supporting Ukraine, the United States appears to be seeking to secure access to these strategic raw materials, which are vital for its technological industries.
Energy and mining stakes in the negotiations
Energy production plants, especially those located in disputed territories, are also central to the negotiations. Russia, which controls part of Ukraine’s infrastructure, aims to maintain its hold on these sites, whose management of energy resources could become a contentious issue. Both countries, facing the need to stabilise their respective economies, seem willing to discuss an arrangement over these assets. Ukraine, whose vast natural wealth remains largely under Russian control, may consider sharing under strict conditions.
Experts highlight the strategic importance of these resources, which go beyond rare earth elements to include crucial energy reserves for Europe. Part of the energy conflict revolves around access to these materials, used in batteries, electronic equipment, and green technologies. Russia’s control over these resources could have significant repercussions on the global market for these raw materials.
International tensions and diplomatic reactions
The discussions on sharing rare earth resources are taking place in a broader context of international tensions. The European Union and NATO member states, while supporting Ukraine, remain concerned that these negotiations could undermine efforts to reclaim Ukrainian territory. Several European countries have expressed doubts about the nature of these talks, fearing that excessive concessions could allow Russia to strengthen its position in the strategic resource market.
Furthermore, Trump’s approach, which seems to favour a swift diplomatic resolution, has drawn criticism in some European circles, where there are concerns that the proposed agreement could come at the expense of Ukraine’s sovereignty over its resource-rich lands. The United States, despite being Ukraine’s partner, also has a direct interest in accessing these rare raw materials for its industries, particularly in the renewable energy and high-tech sectors.
