Trump Faces Extortion Accusations Over Starlink-Ukraine Deal for Rare Earth Minerals

February 22, 2025
Trump Faces Extortion Accusations Over Starlink-Ukraine Deal for Rare Earth Minerals
  • This controversy follows Trump's previous derogatory remarks about Zelensky, whom he labeled a 'dictator,' and his claims that Ukraine was responsible for the onset of the war in February 2022.

  • In a controversial move, Trump is reportedly demanding what he describes as 'the equivalent of like $500 billion worth' of rare earth minerals in exchange for facilitating a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia.

  • Trump's national security adviser, Mike Waltz, has claimed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky would agree to a deal regarding these rare minerals, although Ukrainian sources have indicated that such an agreement is not yet finalized.

  • Concerns have been raised about the current draft of the proposed agreement, which many view as lacking genuine partnership and instead reflecting unilateral commitments from Ukraine.

  • Donald Trump is facing serious accusations of 'extortion' as reports emerge suggesting that U.S. negotiators might restrict Ukraine's access to Starlink if the country does not provide critical minerals.

  • Starlink, owned by Elon Musk, is crucial for internet connectivity in Ukraine, and losing access to it would be considered a 'massive blow' to the nation.

  • Critics, including the news outlet MeidasTouch, have denounced the threat to Starlink as a sign of 'staggering levels of corruption' in the negotiations.

  • In response to Trump's tactics, there have been calls within the European Union to consider banning Tesla sales, reflecting widespread disapproval of his approach.

  • Despite the potential backlash, Elon Musk appears unfazed by the possibility of boycotts against Tesla, even sharing a TikTok video that mocks the notion of suffering financial losses.

Summary based on 1 source


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