Staff Reports
The ongoing saga of U.S. support for Ukraine has taken another twist, with National Security Adviser Mike Waltz stepping into the spotlight to urge Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to reconsider his stance on a highly touted rare earth minerals deal. While some may see a gallant diplomatic dance, others might notice a desperate attempt to salvage a policy gone awry under the Biden administration. It seems that in Washington, the idea of fiscal responsibility has morphed into pressuring foreign leaders about mineral negotiations.
Waltz, flanked by White House brass including press secretary Karoline Leavitt and Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, made it clear that the ball is firmly in Zelensky’s court after his rejection of the initial proposal. While Waltz emphasizes that there’s an “obligation to the taxpayer”—an amusing stance for an administration that has spent trillions on various programs—this deal is being marketed as a golden opportunity for Ukrainian prosperity, with the added bonus of securing U.S. interests in European stability. Who could possibly resist that pitch?
🚨National Security Advisor Mike Waltz confirms the United States wants Ukraine to hand over its rare earth minerals as repayment for all of the aid we sent them. pic.twitter.com/PZBwJ6BeaH
— Derrick Evans (@DerrickEvans4WV) February 20, 2025
The National Security Adviser waxed poetic about how a partnership in Ukraine’s mineral wealth could lay the groundwork for their future security. Apparently, while fostering international friendships through mutual benefit is the goal, it raises eyebrows when taxpayers are being expected to fork over cash for another nation’s resource management. In classic Washington fashion, the message comes wrapped in promises of goodwill, cunningly forgetting that the average American is feeling the pinch from rising costs at the grocery store and gas station.
Waltz did not shy away from tackling the Biden administration’s previous open-ended commitment to the conflict in Ukraine, declaring that era “over.” This admission might just be the wake-up call the D.C. establishment needed, but it begs the question: Isn’t it a bit late for an about-face? That said, it could be seen as a glimmer of hope that some within the administration are finally realizing that strategy needs substance, not just liberal rhetoric.
In what can only be described as a rather elaborate attempt to treat the security of Europe like a group investment scheme, Waltz welcomed discussions among European leaders about stepping up to defend their own interests instead of relying solely on U.S. commitment. One can’t help but snicker at this moment of international unity; after all, when has Europe ever enthusiastically stepped up to the plate when America was footing the bill? Nonetheless, it’s perhaps the most refreshing thing to hear out of D.C. lately, as even the most ardent globalists must acknowledge that “America First” should ring true, even across the Atlantic.
