Donald Trump declared to the press in the Oval Office of the White House that he expects a guarantee from Ukraine in exchange for the aid that Washington provides. He insisted that the country should offer something in return. According to Trump, his predecessor, Joe Biden, did not ask for money from Ukraine, but simply provided them with aid in the form of military assistance and other resources worth over $180 billion since the start of the Russian invasion in February 2022.
The president highlighted that the European Union does not match the level of aid to Ukraine that the United States provides and believes this situation should change, as he argues that geographical distance gives the United States a different position. Before taking office, Trump advocated for an immediate resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, a goal he has yet to achieve. He expressed his desire to talk with Russian President Vladimir Putin to seek a solution and end the war in Ukraine, but did not confirm whether he has already had conversations with him.
Regarding Ukraine, Trump expressed interest in the country providing rare earth minerals to the United States in exchange for the aid being offered. These minerals are essential for various technological innovations, from electric vehicles to wind turbines and modern airplanes. He noted the valuable presence of rare earths in Ukraine and the importance of ensuring what is offered in this bilateral relationship.
