United States President Donald Trump has announced that the US will soon sign a minerals and natural resources deal with Ukraine. The deal is part of broader efforts to support Ukraine’s economy and ensure US access to critical minerals.
Speaking at a White House event on Thursday, March 20, after signing an executive order to boost US production of critical minerals, Trump stated, “We’re doing very well with regard to Ukraine and Russia. And one of the things we are doing is signing a deal very shortly with respect to rare earths with Ukraine.”
Trump also discussed his ongoing peace efforts with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. While his initial goal of securing a 30-day ceasefire was not fully achieved, the talks reportedly led to Putin agreeing to halt attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure for 30 days, with Zelenskyy also agreeing to the pause.
The US and Ukraine had previously stated their intention to finalize a comprehensive agreement to develop Ukraine’s critical mineral resources, which Trump sees as a way for Ukraine to repay US aid. However, negotiations faced setbacks following a tense White House meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy last month.
On Wednesday, March 19, the two leaders held a one-hour phone call, described by the White House as “fantastic”. The conversation marked their first direct discussion since their Oval Office dispute, which had briefly led to a halt in US military aid and intelligence support for Kyiv.
Trump emphasized his commitment to ending the war, stating, “We would love to see that war come to an end. Hopefully, we can save thousands of lives each week. They are dying unnecessarily, and I believe we’ll get it done.”
The minerals deal is expected to be finalized soon, strengthening economic and strategic ties between the US and Ukraine while advancing Trump’s broader geopolitical and economic agenda.