Here is what Trump is thinking.
President Donald Trump has just pulled off a deal that Biden never could — a smart, America-first agreement with Ukraine that puts U.S. interests front and center.
In a strategic economic and diplomatic play, President Trump authorized a groundbreaking minerals partnership with Ukraine aimed at countering Russian influence, recouping billions in U.S. foreign aid, and solidifying America’s role as a global energy leader.
“The economic partnership was President Trump’s idea from the start,” said Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during remarks at the Milken Institute Global Conference in Los Angeles. “It sends a clear message to Moscow: America stands strong — and we don’t write blank checks.”
🔹 What’s in the Deal?
- A 50/50 joint investment fund with Ukraine, finalized April 30
- Funded by oil, gas, and rare-earth mineral projects on Ukrainian soil
- Expected to generate returns for American taxpayers and ensure U.S. oversight
- Seen as a geopolitical tool to gain leverage in future Russia-Ukraine peace talks
Bessent signed the agreement alongside Ukraine’s Economy Minister, Yulia Svyrydenko. The minerals and energy partnership represents a sharp break from past “aid-first, accountability-later” policies seen under Democrat administrations.
🔹 Why It Matters for America
President Trump made it clear: America isn’t a piggy bank. With more than $100 billion in U.S. aid sent to Ukraine, this deal is designed to claw back value and promote U.S. security interests.
“We’re not just handing out money. This is about real returns for American families who’ve watched their taxes go overseas with no accountability,” said one senior Trump official.
🔹 Deal Nearly Collapsed — Until Trump Stepped In
Negotiations briefly fell apart in February after tense Oval Office discussions involving Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and Vice President JD Vance. But Trump didn’t walk away — he turned conflict into leverage.
“The original plan was a basic memo. But after that meeting, we pushed for a full legal agreement — six contracts, hundreds of pages. Much stronger,” Bessent noted.
A follow-up meeting between Trump and Zelensky before Pope Francis’s funeral helped restore trust and finalize the deal.
🔹 A Clear Contrast with Biden-Era Globalism
Bessent dismissed any comparison to China’s exploitative overseas deals, stating:
“This isn’t one of those rapacious Chinese deals. This is about partnership, strength, and a win for America.”
While Russia continues to stall on peace talks, the Trump administration is applying direct pressure, aiming to bring both sides to the table with America in control — not Brussels, not Beijing.
🇺🇸 Trump Delivers. Biden Spent.
This deal is a prime example of what leadership looks like—getting results, not just headlines. Under President Trump, the U.S. isn’t playing defense. We’re setting the terms.
👇 Ask Yourself:
- Why didn’t Biden lock down a deal like this?
- Shouldn’t every dollar of foreign aid come with returns?
- Isn’t it time for America-first energy policy?