President Zelensky Rejects Trump’s Proposal for $500 Billion of Ukraine’s Natural Resources

Former U.S. President Donald Trump proposed that Ukraine transfer $500 billion worth of its natural resources to the United States as part of a deal for continued military and economic support. Trump stated that if Ukraine wishes for ongoing aid, they must cede a portion of their valuable natural resources, including rare minerals.

However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected this proposal, emphasizing that the United States has already provided significant assistance to Ukraine and should focus on aiding the country in its time of need rather than extracting resources.

Former German Chancellor Olaf Scholz criticized Trump’s transactional approach to foreign policy, calling it "selfish and self-centered." Additionally, Ukraine’s former foreign minister, Dmytro Kuleba, argued that the proposal lacked any legal basis, as Ukraine signed a strategic partnership agreement with the European Union in 2021, reinforcing its sovereignty over natural resources.

The proposal raises concerns about the potential economic ramifications for Ukraine, especially regarding its control over vital natural resources. It also has the potential to complicate international relations, particularly with the European Union, as Ukraine navigates its foreign alliances during the ongoing conflict with Russia.