By Tom Balmforth and Olena Harmash
KYIV (Reuters) – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy engaged in discussions with Reuters on Friday, examining a previously classified map showcasing significant deposits of rare earths and essential minerals. This move is part of an effort to appeal to President Donald Trump’s preference for striking deals. The U.S. administration, keen on expediting an end to the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, expressed interest in Ukraine providing rare earths and other minerals in exchange for financial support for its military endeavors.
Zelenskiy expressed openness to negotiations, highlighting Ukraine’s need for security assurances from its allies as a crucial component of any potential agreement. Ukraine first broached the idea of inviting investment in its critical minerals from allies last fall, as it put forward a strategic “victory plan” to strengthen its negotiating position and compel Moscow to engage in discussions.
Less than 20% of Ukraine’s mineral resources, including nearly half of its rare earth deposits, are currently under Russian control. These rare earths are vital in the production of advanced magnets, electric motors, and consumer electronics. Zelenskiy raised concerns about the possibility of Moscow granting access to these resources to adversaries such as North Korea and Iran, both adversaries of the U.S.
The President underscored the urgency of safeguarding Ukraine’s rich mineral resources from Russian encroachment, particularly in the Dnipro region in central Ukraine, where significant mineral deposits are located. With Russian forces making significant gains in the east, Ukraine faces challenges in countering the offensive due to a shortage of troops and concerns over future weapon supplies.
During the interview in Kyiv, Zelenskiy showcased a map detailing various mineral reserves, including a substantial zone in the east known for its rare earth deposits. Despite a significant portion of these resources being situated on the Russian-controlled side of the current frontlines, Ukraine boasts the largest titanium reserves in Europe, crucial for the aerospace and space industries, as well as uranium essential for nuclear applications.
Embracing a more transactional approach in foreign policy, aligning with the new U.S. administration, Zelenskiy clarified that Ukraine is not proposing to relinquish its resources but aims to establish a mutually beneficial partnership for their joint development. He highlighted the importance of the American support and prioritization in these endeavors.
Furthermore, Zelenskiy revealed talks about utilizing Ukraine’s extensive underground gas storage facilities for U.S. liquefied natural gas storage, with discussions ongoing with the White House on potential contracts for LNG supplies to Ukraine. This initiative could position Ukraine as a key hub for LNG distribution across Europe.
Ahead of the upcoming Munich Security Conference from February 14-16, where representatives from numerous Western nations will convene, Zelenskiy expressed his desire to meet with President Trump to advance discussions before U.S.-Russia talks.
At a foreseeable stage in the ongoing conflict that has spanned nearly three years, Ukrainian President Zelenskiy announced his intention to participate in an upcoming forum which is also anticipated to be attended by Keith Kellogg, the designated special envoy for Russia and Ukraine under the Trump administration. Zelenskiy emphasized the importance of a face-to-face meeting with President Trump prior to Trump engaging in discussions with Russian President Putin, as he asserted that the absence of such a meeting might render subsequent talks on Ukraine devoid of direct Ukrainian involvement. President Trump, in response, indicated his expectation to hold discussions with Zelenskiy in the following week. Zelenskiy reiterated that a primary focus for him would be to advocate for security assurances for Ukraine as a precondition to any potential agreement, in order to deter future incursions by Russia.
The Ukrainian leader stressed the necessity for Western nations to craft a comprehensive strategy before entering into negotiations with Moscow. He highlighted ongoing communications between his team and officials like Kellogg and Trump’s national security adviser, Michael Waltz, where general topics are being discussed with specific details to be addressed in due course. Against the backdrop of escalating Russian military movements posing a threat to the strategic Ukrainian logistics center in Pokrovsk, Zelenskiy disclosed that Ukrainian forces had initiated a fresh offensive maneuver, advancing into Russia’s Kursk region by 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles).
Acknowledging the re-engagement of North Korean troops fighting alongside Russian forces in Kursk after a temporary hiatus, Zelenskiy outlined plans for the government to launch attractive recruitment initiatives aimed at luring young men aged 18-24 – who are below the conscription age – into the military to alleviate manpower shortages. While refraining from specifying the anticipated number of recruits, the president shared intentions to roll out these recruitment contracts in the upcoming week. The intricate dynamics of the conflict and the evolving strategies employed underscore the complex diplomatic and military landscape in the region as various stakeholders navigate the shifting dynamics of the conflict.
