The U.S. is engaged in talks with the DRC for a rare earth elements deal, trading military aid for resource access. Despite complexities, there are calls for greater U.S. partnership, especially given the DRC’s mineral wealth. Recent U.S.-Ukraine negotiations have faltered, heightening the importance of the DRC’s resources.
The United States is reportedly in preliminary discussions with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for a potential agreement concerning rare earth elements. This initiative represents the current administration’s ongoing efforts to secure essential foreign resources, particularly following unsuccessful negotiations with Ukraine.
According to a Saturday report from the Financial Times, this proposed agreement may allow the United States access to vital minerals in exchange for providing military aid to the DRC. Sources indicate that discussions between Washington and Kinshasa are progressing but face numerous challenges, remaining in the early phases.
Efforts by foreign-backed rebels have destabilized large areas in eastern DRC, complicating the resource situation. Tina Salama, a spokesperson for President Felix Tshisekedi, stated that the DRC invites U.S. companies currently sourcing materials from Rwanda to instead procure them from the DRC, the rightful owner of these resources.
The region is rich in untapped mineral wealth, such as cobalt and lithium, prompting Senator Pierre Kanda Kalambayi to advocate for a partnership in a letter addressed to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. He suggested increased military cooperation with Kinshasa’s forces, including training and support.
Recently, a deal involving Ukraine’s revenue from natural resources was abandoned during a contentious meeting at the White House, where President Trump and Vice President JD Vance expressed strong dissatisfaction with President Zelensky’s commitment to the U.S. efforts, insisting on progress towards a peace agreement with Russia.
The ongoing negotiations between the United States and the Democratic Republic of Congo signify a strategic initiative to secure rare earth minerals amidst geopolitical instability. As discussions advance, the potential partnership may lead to increased military cooperation while underscoring the vital importance of mineral resources to both nations. Continued attention will be necessary as these talks unfold, particularly in light of the recent challenges faced in securing agreements with other nations.
Original Source: www.presstv.ir
