Strategic Mineral Exchange
's vast reserves of ilmenite, essential for titanium production, are underdeveloped due to war and restrictive policies, but a potential deal with the could leverage these resources for continued military aid.
The proposed exchange aims to strengthen ties with the U.S., a major importer of ilmenite, reducing reliance on and for critical minerals used in aerospace and defense industries.
Challenges and Skepticism
Ukrainian President halted the mineral resource agreement, citing inadequate protection for national interests, amidst skepticism from local businessmen over the deal's viability.
Concerns loom over investment security and the willingness of American companies to navigate Ukraine's capital-intensive and under-researched minerals industry, with potential decades-long returns.