US plan on Ukraine to include conflict freezing, guarantees: Bloomberg
3 Min Read
Trump has further linked US security assistance to Ukraine's natural resources, particularly its rare earth minerals, which are crucial for modern technology.
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Ukrainian soldiers bend their knees during a funeral ceremony in Ukraine, Wednesday, February 5, 2025. (AP)
Bloomberg on Wednesday reported that the United States is set to unveil a proposal aimed at ending the ongoing war in Ukraine during the Munich Security Conference, scheduled for February 14–16, 2025.
The plan, which will be presented by Special Envoy Keith Kellogg, is expected to include a freeze on hostilities and security guarantees for Kiev.
According to the report, the strategy may leave territories under Russian control in a state of uncertainty, without formal recognition of Moscow's governance over these territories. This approach is seen as a way to halt active fighting while delaying territorial decisions.
On Tuesday, Kellogg confirmed his attendance at the conference, where he is expected to present details of the US approach. Before heading to Munich, he is scheduled to visit Ukraine in mid-February for discussions with President Volodymyr Zelensky, according to the Ukrainian news outlet New Voice.
Trump's position
Donald Trump, during his presidential campaign, repeatedly pledged to end the war in Ukraine within 24 hours of taking office. In line with this vision, Kellogg has set a target to bring the conflict to a resolution within 100 days of Trump's inauguration. Trump has also made it clear that he does not support Ukraine's membership in NATO, a stance that has been a point of contention in international diplomacy.
Read more: Trump's Ukraine envoy proposes cutting weapons to force peace talks
Trump has further linked US security assistance to Ukraine's natural resources, particularly its rare earth minerals, which are crucial for modern technology.
On Monday, Trump stated that he expects strategic metals in return for US support, noting, "We're telling Ukraine they have very valuable rare earths. We're looking to do a deal with Ukraine where they're going to secure what we're giving them with their rare earth and other things. We want a guarantee. We're handing them money, hand over fist."
Ukraine's stance on peace talks
Zelensky has stressed the necessity of including both the United States and European nations in any negotiation process. He has also noted the importance of securing guarantees from Russia to ensure lasting stability, expressing concerns over any settlement that does not provide Ukraine with long-term security assurances.
As part of Ukraine's broader diplomatic and economic efforts, Zelensky has proposed allowing American companies to invest in Ukraine's rare earth minerals as part of an exchange for continued US support. "I would like US business... to develop this field here," Zelensky stated on Tuesday, framing mineral investments as an integral component of Ukraine's post-war recovery and national security strategy.
However, the proposal has drawn international criticism, with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz calling Trump's approach "selfish" and arguing that Ukraine's strategic resources should be preserved for its post-war recovery rather than leveraged as a condition for aid.
Read more: Graham urges more aid to 'trillion dollars’ worth of minerals' Ukraine
Rare earth elements remain a key global resource, with China currently controlling around 70% of the global supply. The US has been seeking to reduce its reliance on Beijing, making access to Ukraine's reserves particularly strategic.
