(The Epoch Times)—Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Friday that he is open to a deal granting the United States access to Ukraine’s vast rare earth and critical mineral deposits in exchange for continued military aid amid the ongoing Russia–Ukraine war.
“If we are talking about a deal, then let’s do a deal, we are only for it,” Zelenskyy told Reuters reporters in a Feb. 7 interview in Kyiv, stressing that Ukraine would require security guarantees from its allies as part of any agreement on supplies of critical minerals and rare earths.
Trump told reporters at the White House on Feb. 3 that he was looking to strike a deal with Zelenskyy on securing rare earths in return for continued financial support for Ukraine in its war against Russia.
Rare earth metals, a collection of 17 essential elements, play a key role in powering modern technology, from electric vehicle motors to missile guidance systems. With no practical substitutes, securing supply chains for these elements is a priority for Trump as he seeks to strengthen America’s manufacturing base.
Speaking to reporters at the Oval Office on Feb. 7, Trump said he plans to meet Zelenskyy next week, possibly in Washington, for talks about the long-running conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Trump said that the discussions will include asking Ukraine to supply its rare earths and other critical minerals in exchange for continued U.S. financial assistance that Kyiv needs to continue resisting Russia’s invasion.
In response, Zelenskyy said he hopes the talks lead to a lasting peace in Ukraine.
“The coming weeks may be very intensive in diplomacy, and we will do what’s needed to make this time effective and productive. We always appreciate working with President Trump,” Zelenskyy said in a post on X on Feb. 7. “Weʼre also planning meetings and talks at the teams’ level. Right now Ukrainian and American teams are working out the details. A solid, lasting peace shall become closer.”
Trump also said Friday that he plans to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin as part of the U.S. president’s efforts to broker a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine. “It’s a ridiculous war,” Trump said, adding that he “would very much like to help” bring about peace in the region.
Zelenskyy’s openness to striking a deal with the United States comes as little surprise as his “victory plan“ includes an explicit offer to strategic partners for ”joint protection of the country’s critical resources,” along with an offer to extract and make use of these key elements.
In Kyiv, Zelenskyy told Reuters that around half of Ukraine’s rare earth deposits were under Russian occupation, with that figure dropping to less than 20 percent when counting all of the country’s vast mineral resources. Ukraine holds Europe’s largest titanium reserves, vital for aviation and space industries, and uranium, crucial for nuclear energy and weapons, he said.
“The Americans helped the most, and therefore the Americans should earn the most,” Zelenskyy said of U.S. military and other aid to Ukraine amid the Russian invasion. “And they should have this priority, and they will. I would also like to talk about this with President Trump.”
Trump said Friday that the United States has already committed more than $300 billion to Ukraine’s defense, while European contributions lag at approximately $100 billion.
Three Reasons a Coffee Gift Set From This Christian Company Is Perfect for Christmas
When you’re searching for a Christmas gift that’s meaningful, useful, and rooted in faith, you don’t want to settle for anything generic. This season is filled with noise — mass-produced products, last-minute picks, and trends that fade as quickly as they appear. But one gift stands apart because it blends genuine quality with a message that matters: a coffee gift set from Promised Grounds Coffee.
This small Christian-owned company has become a favorite among believers who want to support faith-driven businesses while giving friends and family something they’ll actually enjoy. Here are three reasons a Promised Grounds Coffee gift set may be the most thoughtful and impactful present you give this year.
1. It’s Truly Delicious Coffee
Too many “gift-worthy” coffees look beautiful in the package but disappoint when the cup is poured. Promised Grounds takes the opposite approach — exceptional taste first, thoughtful presentation second.
Their beans are sourced with care, roasted in small batches, and crafted to bring out a rich, smooth flavor profile that appeals to both casual drinkers and true coffee lovers. Whether someone enjoys bold, dark roasts or lighter, more delicate blends, every sip reflects quality that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the biggest specialty brands.
Simply put: this coffee is good. Really good. Some say it’s absolutely fantastic. If you want a gift that won’t be re-gifted, ignored, or shoved in a cabinet, this is it.
2. It Spreads the Word While Serving a Real Purpose
There are many Christian gifts that are meaningful… but not exactly practical. There are also useful gifts that have nothing to do with faith. Promised Grounds Coffee bridges both worlds beautifully.
Each gift set delivers an encouraging, faith-centered message through its packaging and presentation — a simple but powerful reminder of God’s goodness during the Christmas season. The cups are especially popular and serve as a daily reminder of the blessings from our Lord. At the same time, the product itself is something people will actually use and appreciate every single day.
It’s a gift that uplifts the spirit and fills the mug. A gift that points loved ones toward Scripture while still being part of the normal rhythm of life. And in a culture that increasingly pushes faith to the margins, giving a gift that quietly but confidently honors Christ can make a deeper impact than you might expect.
3. It’s Affordable, Valuable, and Elegantly Presented
Many people want to give something meaningful without breaking their Christmas budget. Promised Grounds Coffee strikes that perfect balance — the sets look and feel premium, but the price remains accessible.
The packaging is classy, clean, and gift-ready, making it ideal for:
- Family members of all ages
- Co-workers or employees
- Church friends or small-group leaders
- Hosts, neighbors, and last-minute gift needs
It’s the kind of gift that feels more expensive than it is — and more thoughtful than most of what you’ll find on store shelves.
The Perfect Blend of Faith, Flavor, and Christmas Cheer
A coffee gift set from Promised Grounds Coffee checks every box: a gift that tastes amazing, conveys your faith, supports a Christian business, and brings daily enjoyment to the person who receives it. In a season when so many gifts are forgotten, this one stands out for all the right reasons.
If you want a Christmas present that reflects your values and delivers genuine joy, Promised Grounds Coffee is the perfect place to start.