The US is negotiating critical minerals agreements with the DRC and Ukraine. The DRC seeks support for President Tshisekedi in exchange for mineral access, while Ukraine is hesitating due to concerns over national interests. Both discussions highlight the US’s strategic aim to enhance resource availability and counterbalance Chinese control in these regions.
The United States is initiating preliminary negotiations with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for a critical minerals deal. This agreement aims to secure access to vital minerals such as copper, cobalt, and uranium, which are essential for advanced technologies. The DRC has proposed a deal that would include resource access in exchange for support to President Felix Tshisekedi’s government during a time of instability caused by rebel groups in the region.
Despite ongoing talks, multiple challenges exist, and discussions remain in early stages. A spokesperson from the US State Department emphasized the DRC’s significant mineral reserves and the potential partnerships for both nations to enhance their economies. This collaboration is also intended to diminish China’s extensive control over the DRC’s mining resources.
In parallel, the United States is pushing for a minerals agreement with Ukraine. Discussions initially surfaced on February 12, led by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, for Kyiv to sign a draft agreement. However, President Volodymyr Zelensky halted the process, citing concerns over Ukraine’s interests regarding investments, profits, and security guarantees.
Previously, former President Donald Trump claimed that Ukraine had tentatively agreed to transfer valuable rare earth metals to the US in return for military assistance. Following a disagreement between Trump and Zelensky, US officials encouraged continuous dialogues with Ukraine about the mineral deal, seeking a public apology from Zelensky to Trump.
On March 4, Zelensky acknowledged the contentious nature of his meeting with Trump, suggesting the need for a correction. He expressed Ukraine’s willingness to finalize a minerals agreement promptly, viewing it as a fundamental move towards bolstering national security and receiving solid security assurances.
The US aims to establish critical minerals agreements with both the Democratic Republic of Congo and Ukraine. The DRC’s proposal involves resource access in exchange for governmental support amidst regional unrest, while Ukraine’s concerns over its interests have led to delays in finalizing a similar agreement. Continuous dialogue reflects the US’s strategic interests in global mineral resources, especially in countering Chinese influence.
Original Source: babel.ua
