Russia offers U.S. access to Ukraine's rare earth minerals

Russia may offer the United States access to rare earth minerals in Ukraine to help end the ongoing war. Peace talks will start in Saudi Arabia, where U.S. and Russian officials will meet. These talks follow a call between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, where they discussed a temporary ceasefire. The minerals in question are located in regions of Ukraine that Russia annexed, including Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia. This annexation, made by Russia in September 2022, makes it illegal for Putin to offer these resources to the U.S. However, discussions about access to these rare earth materials are expected to be part of the talks in Riyadh. Trump's Middle East envoy mentioned the possibility of an agreement regarding the Black Sea. Details of this agreement were not provided. Rare earth deposits are vital for both countries, and previous talks have included accessing these resources. Russian billionaire Vladimir Potanin, linked to the president, has also expressed interest in exploring these rare earth reserves, potentially with foreign partners. Putin has indicated a willingness to cooperate with American companies on rare earth projects. He mentioned various locations in Russia that have mineral reserves. Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials have also expressed readiness to sign agreements for such resources. As the talks in Saudi Arabia continue, it remains uncertain if any deal for rare earths will be reached or how the U.S. might engage with Ukraine regarding these resources.