Former President Donald Trump introduced a new dimension to the discussions aimed at resolving the conflict in Ukraine: fresh “economic development” opportunities with Russia that he suggests could complement the existing dialogues between the US and Ukraine.
“I am currently engaged in substantial discussions with President Vladimir Putin regarding the conclusion of the War, along with significant Economic Development initiatives that may transpire between Russia and the United States,” Trump stated on Monday, further noting, “Progress is being made in these talks!”
Although specifics about the proposed goods were not provided, Trump hinted later that the discussions might mirror the ongoing negotiations with Ukraine about access to the rare earth minerals found in that country.
“The initial aspect of the overall agreement is to cease hostilities,” Trump remarked, adding, “However, similar to our approach with Ukraine, we might pursue some economic development opportunities with Russia, which would allow us to secure what we need.”
Like Ukraine, Russia possesses valuable rare earth minerals that US companies are eager to tap into. A recent US Geological Survey report revealed that China holds the largest reserves of these vital components used in numerous electronics, with Russia occupying the fifth position.
Prior US-led sanctions against Russia, which include export restrictions on several manufactured goods and a price cap and embargo on Russian oil, might provide Trump with additional economic leverage to convince Putin.
Trump’s varied remarks on Monday coincided with the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to the White House.
Any attempts to invigorate the Russian economy would represent a significant shift from the three years of Western policies that aimed to isolate and diminish that country’s economy, with varying degrees of success.
This also marks yet another friendly overture from Trump towards Russia, in contrast to Joe Biden’s approach of distancing from the Russian leader.
When asked on Monday if he regarded Putin as a dictator, after previously labeling Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a “dictator without elections,” Trump chose not to clarify whether he would assign the same label to Putin, stating, “I don’t use those words lightly.”
While Trump did not provide further insights regarding specific economic developments when he appeared with Macron at a formal press conference later that afternoon, he did express feeling optimistic about potential new dialogues with Russia.
