Zelensky Offers Mineral Partnership as Trump Plans Talks to End War

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that he will 'probably be meeting with President Zelensky next week' to discuss securing access to Ukraine's rare earth minerals and underground gas storage in exchange for American aid. Trump emphasized the importance of 'having the security of their assets,' highlighting Ukraine's valuable mineral resources, particularly rare earth elements critical for high-tech industries and weaponry. Zelensky expressed openness to the proposal, stating, 'Let's do a deal,' but stressed the need for security guarantees. He also offered Ukraine's gas storage facilities for U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG). Zelensky noted that Russia currently controls half of Ukraine's rare earth deposits but less than 20% of its total mineral wealth. Trump also stated he plans to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying, 'I'd like to see that war end.' Zelensky reiterated his readiness to negotiate with Putin to end the war but asserted that 'Putin is afraid to talk to me.'