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Zelensky Delays $11.5 Trillion Minerals Deal with US Until Trump's Inauguration on January 20, Holding One-Third of Europe's Lithium

Dec 14, 2024, 06:31 PM

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has postponed a significant minerals deal with the United States, aiming to finalize the agreement after Donald Trump's inauguration on January 20, 2024. This delay is strategic, as Ukrainian officials are reportedly seeking to allow Trump to take credit for the deal, which involves Ukraine's substantial reserves of rare earth metals, estimated at $11.5 trillion. Notably, Ukraine holds one-third of Europe's lithium, a critical resource in the global market. According to reports, the agreement has been delayed twice to create an opportunity for the incoming president to claim an early victory during his term.