- Trump urges Europe to lead Ukraine security post-conflict
- Starmer demands US military backstop for NATO guarantees
- $2B mineral pact proposed as economic security measure
- Zelenskyy to negotiate defense pact in DC visit
- Western allies divided on troop deployment risks
The White House meeting between President Trump and Prime Minister Starmer revealed deepening transatlantic divisions over post-war security planning. With Russia’s invasion entering its fourth year, Trump reiterated his stance that European nations must shoulder 75% of future defense costs for Ukraine – a threefold increase from current NATO commitments. This aligns with his administration’s broader strategy to reduce overseas military expenditures by 18% through 2026.
Industry analysts note the proposed critical minerals partnership could reshape Eastern European geopolitics. Ukraine’s lithium reserves – estimated at 500,000 metric tons – position it as a vital alternative to Chinese-dominated supply chains. However, the lack of binding security clauses in the draft agreement raises concerns among arms manufacturers, with Lockheed Martin shares dipping 2.3% following the announcement.
France’s recent pledge to deploy 1,500 peacekeepers contrasts sharply with Britain’s conditional support. The UK has committed only 400 personnel pending US logistical backing, highlighting Europe’s fragmented response. Historical parallels emerge with the 1995 Dayton Accords, where NATO’s Implementation Force required 60,000 troops to stabilize Bosnia – a scale today’s leaders appear reluctant to match.
Zelenskyy’s scheduled DC visit underscores Ukraine’s precarious position. The embattled leader seeks advanced Patriot systems to protect Kharkiv’s energy infrastructure, recently targeted in 12 separate missile strikes. Pentagon officials privately estimate a $4B price tag for comprehensive air defense – funds currently excluded from the minerals agreement. As negotiations continue, global wheat futures remain volatile, with Ukraine accounting for 10% of worldwide exports.