Trump announced Bessent’s visit on Tuesday via social media, stating that discussions will focus on US access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals, energy resources, and key energy infrastructure. A source familiar with the matter, speaking anonymously, confirmed that talks would also include the future of some Ukrainian state-owned enterprises.
Both Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have expressed interest in a potential agreement that would grant the US access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals in exchange for continued American support in Ukraine’s defense against Russia.
National Security Adviser Mike Waltz reiterated the US position in an interview on Sunday, emphasizing that American support should be reciprocated through resource partnerships. “We need to recoup those costs, and that will involve cooperation with Ukraine on rare earths, natural resources, and oil and gas,” Waltz stated.
Other senior US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Vice President JD Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and US special envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg, are also scheduled to visit Europe this week for discussions on the Ukraine conflict.
Trump has frequently criticized excessive US spending on foreign conflicts. “The US has spent BILLIONS of dollars globally, with little to show,” he wrote in a Truth Social post.
Rare earth minerals are critical for military technology, electric vehicles, and consumer electronics. As demand continues to rise, securing a stable supply has become a strategic priority for Washington.
Additionally, the Trump administration is reportedly urging European allies to increase purchases of American-made weapons for Ukraine ahead of potential peace negotiations with Moscow.