Zelensky's rare earth rejection sparks White House fallout
Volodymyr Zelensky will not sign an agreement with the USA regarding rare earth metals. Following a heated conversation in the Oval Office, Donald Trump asked him to leave the White House, according to American media. The meeting concluded without a press conference.
During Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to the White House, tensions escalated. Fox News reports that the President of Ukraine was requested by Donald Trump to depart the Oval Office. This was due to a heated exchange in front of the media.
Donald Trump commented on the incident on social media, stating: "He disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office. He can come back when he is ready for Peace." Consequently, the planned press conference was cancelled.
The meeting was intended to address an agreement on the extraction of rare earth metals, yet it remains unsigned. Relations between the USA and Ukraine continue to be strained, and further discussions on cooperation in this sector are uncertain.
The proposed agreement between the United States and Ukraine aimed to establish collaboration in the development of Ukrainian mineral resources, including rare earth metals such as titanium, lithium, and graphite, essential for modern technology. The objective was to support Ukraine's economic recovery and enable the USA to recoup some of the funds allocated to aid Kyiv.
Main assumptions of the agreement:
Creation of an Investment Fund for Reconstruction - the fund was to be jointly managed by the US and Ukrainian governments. Ukraine would commit to allocating 50% of future revenues from the monetisation of state natural resources and related infrastructure, such as LNG terminals and ports, to the fund.
Exclusion of existing sources of income - resources already contributing to the Ukrainian budget, like Naftogaz or Ukrnafta, would not be included in the agreement.
No direct security guarantees - while the agreement focused on economic collaboration, it did not include direct security guarantees or the continuation of arms supplies from the USA.
During the meeting at the White House on 28 February 2025, Presidents Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky were to discuss the specifics of this agreement. However, the discussions became tense, and disagreements over the terms of the agreement and security issues led to the cancellation of the planned joint press conference. Shortly afterwards, the President of Ukraine departed the White House.
Despite potential economic advantages, the failure to reach an agreement during the presidents' meeting may affect future relations between the USA and Ukraine and future support for Kyiv in its efforts towards rebuilding and stabilising the country.
