Trump stated he wants to receive rare earth metals from Ukraine in exchange for American aid.

US President Donald Trump informed reporters that he aims to negotiate with Ukraine regarding the supply of rare earth metals in exchange for American aid. These metals are crucial for manufacturing components in electronics and other emerging technologies.

“We are considering a deal with Ukraine, where they will provide what we give them with their rare earth metals and other items,” Trump is quoted by the agency AFP, speaking to reporters in the Oval Office on Monday, February 3.

According to him, Ukraine is prepared for such an agreement.

It remains unclear how seriously Trump was discussing Ukrainian rare earth metals.

As noted by Reuters, he may have been referring to a broader category of critical minerals. Ukraine possesses significant proven reserves of uranium, lithium, and titanium, which fall under critical minerals but are not classified as rare earth metals.

Background. As reported, Russia's seizure of Ukrainian lithium deposits in Donetsk poses a threat to all of Europe. The Shevchenkivske lithium deposit is one of the country's most valuable assets, yet Russian forces already control a significant portion of the city.