Trump expected to sign Ukraine rare earth minerals deal soon

President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. will soon sign a deal with Ukraine regarding access to its rare earth minerals, following an executive order to boost U.S. production of critical minerals. In a recent event, Trump expressed optimism about the status of peace efforts between Ukraine and Russia, referencing talks with both President Volodymyr Zelensky and President Vladimir Putin. He indicated that the agreement with Ukraine is part of broader efforts to compensate the U.S. for its support in the ongoing conflict. The deal aims to unlock Ukraine's significant mineral resources, which Trump values highly, despite none of these resources being commercially exploited to date. White House press secretary Caroline Leavitt stated that the focus has shifted beyond just the minerals agreement toward achieving a long-term peace agreement. The announcement reflects a strategic move by the U.S. to strengthen its economic ties with Ukraine amid the ongoing war with Russia.