President Zelensky rejects Trump’s bid for $500bn of Ukraine’s natural resources

President Zelensky rejects Trump’s bid for $500bn of Ukraine’s natural resources

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has declined a proposal from U.S. President Donald Trump, which sought $500 billion worth of Ukraine's natural resources in exchange for past American military aid.

The proposal, discussed during Zelensky's meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance, aimed to secure half of Ukraine's rare earth minerals, including significant reserves of lithium, titanium, and uranium.

However, it lacked specific security guarantees for Ukraine, a critical concern for Kyiv amid ongoing Russian aggression.

The White House labeled Zelensky's decision as "short-sighted," arguing that economic ties with the U.S. would enhance Ukraine's security against future threats.

In response, Ukraine is preparing a counter-proposal that seeks substantial security assurances before considering any resource exchange.