The U.S. is in early talks with the DRC and Ukraine to secure agreements for access to critical minerals, vital for advanced technologies. The DRC has proposed a deal amidst political turmoil, while Ukraine expresses cautious interest following past tensions with the U.S. This engagement highlights the U.S. strategy to counter Chinese influence and strengthen economic ties.
The United States is currently engaged in preliminary discussions with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) regarding an agreement aimed at securing access to critical minerals necessary for advanced technologies. This initiative seeks to foster a similar partnership with Ukraine as well. The DRC, rich in resources such as copper, cobalt, and uranium, has proposed a minerals-for-support exchange with the U.S. in light of the political difficulties faced by President Felix Tshisekedi’s administration.
Local officials are advocating for increased backing for President Tshisekedi as the nation grapples with turmoil due to rebel factions, backed by Rwanda, seizing mineral-rich areas and major cities like Goma and Bukavu. While discussions surrounding the agreement have intensified recently, they remain in the initial stages with numerous hurdles yet to be addressed.
A U.S. State Department spokesperson remarked that “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.” The spokesperson further highlighted that a collaboration with American firms could bolster both nations’ economies, emphasizing the U.S. interest in securing global mineral resources. Enhanced U.S. involvement in the DRC would also serve to counteract the growing influence of Chinese companies that dominate the country’s mining sector.
Negotiations have also been initiated with Ukraine, first introduced by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on February 12. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed hesitance to proceed, citing inadequacies in investment protections and security guarantees. The discussions continued post a tense exchange between President Trump and President Zelensky on February 28, where allegations arose concerning a potential agreement involving $500 billion in rare earth metals in exchange for U.S. military support.
On March 4, President Zelensky acknowledged complications during his meeting with Trump and expressed Ukraine’s willingness to finalize an agreement on mineral usage “at any time and in any convenient format,” viewing it as essential to bolstering national security and acquiring reliable guarantees.
The United States is making significant strides in negotiating critical minerals agreements with both the Democratic Republic of Congo and Ukraine. These partnerships aim to secure vital resources necessary for advanced technologies, with an underlying goal of counterbalancing international influences, particularly from China. The ongoing dialogues indicate both nations’ readiness to strengthen their economic ties and ensure future security arrangements.
Original Source: babel.ua
