Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has turned down a proposal from the Trump administration that would have provided the United States access to Ukraine’s valuable mineral resources in exchange for continued military aid. Despite accepting billions in US support, Zelenskyy dismissed the deal, claiming it did not provide the security guarantees he wanted.

The offer, presented at the Munich Security Conference by Vice President JD Vance, would have granted the US rights to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals, which include critical resources like graphite, lithium, and uranium. These materials are essential for defense and technology industries. The Trump administration framed the proposal as a way to ensure that US aid was reciprocated with tangible benefits.

Zelenskyy, however, refused to let his ministers sign the agreement. “It is not ready to protect us, our interests,” he stated, emphasizing that any such deal must come with firm security assurances. He has repeatedly insisted that Europe alone cannot provide sufficient security and that US military support remains essential.

White House National Security Council Spokesman Brian Hughes criticized Zelenskyy’s decision, calling it “short-sighted” and a missed opportunity for Ukraine. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy raised alarmist warnings about Russia, claiming that Vladimir Putin is planning a future war against NATO, possibly as soon as this summer.

While rejecting the Trump administration’s proposal, Ukraine is now working on its own counteroffer to present to Washington in the near future. The rejection highlights growing tensions as Zelenskyy continues to demand US military assistance while refusing deals that would benefit both nations.