FT News Briefing
Why Trump wants Ukraine’s minerals
Feb 19, 2025
U.S. and Russian negotiators are working on a path to end the Ukraine war, with Trump eyeing lucrative Ukrainian mineral resources. The mineral wealth poses risks for Ukraine, as favorable deals may be hard to come by. The podcast also dives into the surge of funding for small modular nuclear reactors, driven by demand from AI data centers, showcasing their cost benefits and partnerships with tech giants. However, challenges remain in deploying these reactors, requiring government support amid contrasting political views.
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Quick takeaways
- Recent US-Russia discussions aim to establish a resolution for the Ukraine conflict, but Ukraine's involvement is crucial for legitimacy.
- Trump's interest in Ukraine's rare minerals raises concerns among Ukrainian officials about the fairness of potential military assistance swaps.
Deep dives
U.S. and Russia's Negotiations on Ukraine
Recent discussions between the U.S. and Russia indicate efforts to reach a resolution for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. High-level officials from both nations convened in Saudi Arabia, marking their first face-to-face interaction since the 2022 invasion. Notably absent from these talks was Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has openly stated that Ukraine will reject any agreements made without its direct involvement. The negotiations may include economic or investment components, a prospect that has prompted European leaders to urgently reassess their strategies concerning Ukraine.
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