Ukraine Delays US Minerals Deal to Secure Trump’s Approval
Ukraine’s twice-delayed minerals agreement with the U.S. may be strategically timed for a Trump administration announcement, potentially framing the deal—involving significant reserves of minerals like lithium—as an early achievement. This delay follows broader Ukrainian efforts to cultivate a relationship with President-elect Trump, including a last-minute meeting in Paris orchestrated by Ukrainian officials. The deal’s potential value is estimated at $11.5 trillion in reserves across 20 minerals. Senator Lindsey Graham has voiced support for a deal, suggesting mutual benefits for both countries.
John Q. Hosedrinker