In a recent U.S.-France summit, President Donald Trump announced the possibility of reaching an agreement with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on a mineral development accord as soon as within one to two weeks. Trump also suggested that Russia might accept European peacekeeping forces, while Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed readiness to propose rare earth elements to the United States.
During the summit held in Washington, D.C., Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed deploying European peacekeeping troops to guarantee Ukraine’s security amid ongoing tensions with Russia. While Ukraine seeks solid security assurances involving the U.S. to end the war with Russia, the consensus between Europe and the U.S. leans towards deploying European troops.
Trump emphasized that European nations should share the costs and responsibilities of maintaining peace, and he noted Europe’s central role in guaranteeing Ukraine’s long-term security. He suggested that while a direct peace agreement is ideal, a ceasefire could be a quicker initial step towards resolving the conflict.
In a press briefing, Trump mentioned the potential acceptance by Russia of European troops in Ukraine and the likelihood of signing a mineral development agreement with Ukraine shortly. He conveyed confidence that Putin would accept European peacekeeping forces. Additionally, Trump implied ongoing discussions around economic cooperation with Russia, highlighting Russia’s vast reserves of rare earth minerals.
Putin, in response during a Russian state TV interview, stated that Russia is prepared to offer rare earth metals to the U.S. This aligns with Trump’s efforts to mediate between Russia and Ukraine successfully, as shared with Macron. Macron noted practical progress on Ukrainian discussions and expressed shared beliefs in peace through strength, suggesting Europe should bear more security responsibilities.
Trump reiterated the need for agreements concerning Ukraine’s critical minerals and rare earth resources, alongside security matters. He highlighted the significant financial aid from the U.S. and Europe to Ukraine and suggested that future agreements might address existing financial imbalances.
Ultimately, both leaders expressed the importance of European involvement in Ukraine’s security and rebuilding efforts, with Macron supporting Trump’s focus on short-term ceasefires leading to long-term peace agreements. Trump concluded by emphasizing the role of the U.S., Europe, Ukraine, and Russia in ending violence and achieving global peace.