U.S. Pursues Mineral Agreements with Congo and Ukraine to Enhance Security and Access Resources
The United States is in preliminary talks with the Democratic Republic of Congo and Ukraine to secure agreements for access to critical minerals. The DRC’s proposal includes government support in exchange for minerals amid regional instability. U.S. officials aim to counterbalance Chinese influence while fostering economic partnerships. Negotiations with Ukraine have faced roadblocks, though Zelensky expresses willingness to sign a minerals deal that enhances security.
The United States is engaged in preliminary discussions with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to establish a deal for access to critical minerals. Additionally, the U.S. is pursuing a comparable agreement with Ukraine. The DRC is rich in resources such as copper, cobalt, and uranium, and recently proposed a minerals deal in exchange for support for its government under President Felix Tshisekedi.
Given the DRC’s current instability, exacerbated by rebel forces backed by Rwanda controlling mineral-rich regions and major cities like Goma and Bukavu, local officials are keen on enhancing support for Tshisekedi. The negotiations have intensified recently but still encounter several challenges. They remain in the early stages at this time.
A spokesperson from the U.S. State Department remarked, “The DR Congo is home to a significant portion of the world’s reserves of critical minerals needed for advanced technologies. The United States is open to discussing partnerships in this sector.” They noted that collaboration with American businesses would benefit both economies. Though no agreement terms are finalized, it highlights U.S. interest in global resource access while countering Chinese influence in the DRC’s mining sector.
Regarding Ukraine, the draft deal was introduced by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on February 12, with expectations from Washington for immediate agreement. However, President Volodymyr Zelensky decided against signing, citing insufficient protections for Ukraine’s interests concerning investments, profits, and security assurances.
Earlier, former President Donald Trump claimed Ukraine effectively agreed to transfer $500 billion worth of rare earth metals to the U.S. as military aid compensation. Following tensions between Trump and Zelensky on February 28, U.S. officials continued urging Ukraine to reassess the agreement. Zelensky later indicated that Ukraine is willing to finalize the minerals deal at any appropriate time, viewing it as a means to bolster security.
In conclusion, the United States is actively working to secure critical minerals from the Democratic Republic of Congo and is also seeking a similar agreement with Ukraine. As both nations hold significant resources, these negotiations are pivotal for U.S. interests and may also influence the geopolitical landscape by counteracting Chinese dominance in the mining sector. The outcomes remain uncertain as discussions continue amidst various challenges.
Original Source: babel.ua
