U.S. may provide air protection for peacekeepers in Ukraine

This was reported by the Times, citing British government officials.

According to the outlet's sources, Washington could offer a form of air defense for peacekeepers in Ukraine in return for rare earth minerals.

The UK government insists that the "full form of air cover" in Ukraine should be ensured by the Americans, possibly through Patriot systems.

"That’s their security guarantee," the source emphasized.

The report also recalls that during his visit to Kyiv, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that an agreement on Ukrainian rare earth metals could serve as a "security shield" in the post-war period.

"By increasing our economic commitment through a partnership with the government and people of Ukraine, that will provide — once this conflict is over — a long-term security shield for all Ukrainians," he said.

Exchange of Ukrainian rare earth elements for U.S. aid

Previously, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he wants to negotiate with Ukraine on exchanging rare earth elements for U.S. assistance. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned the American leader’s proposal.

Ukrainian MP Yaroslav Zheleznyak suggested that Trump's statement about exchanging Ukrainian rare earth elements for aid was intended for the American audience.

Lieutenant Colonel with the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Deputy Commander of the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade Maksym Zhorin, also shared his opinion. The military officer is convinced that it is crucial not to allow "all resources to be completely depleted."

On Tuesday, February 4, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy assured that Ukraine is open to American investments.

On February 12, Zelenskyy held a meeting in Kyiv with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Ukraine received the first draft of a partnership agreement from the United States.