Commentary
Security
America’s New Cold War: Europe Faces a Stark Choice – COMMENTARY
15 April 2025
Ukraine is reframing its case for Western support. The Victory Plan highlights Ukraine’s role as an economic and security partner – offering investment in critical minerals and a potential role in European defence. Can this strategy secure continued backing from Washington and Brussels?
Donald Trump’s return to the White House has prompted Ukraine to shift its messaging from a value-driven appeal to one emphasizing tangible gains and losses.
On 3 February, Trump signalled that US assistance to Ukraine might hinge on guaranteed access to its rare earth materials. While Trump has not detailed which resources he is seeking, an official in the President’s Office confirmed that sharing Ukraine’s critical minerals is a central component of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s ‘Victory Plan,’ a strategy first introduced in October 2024 and which has reportedly been presented to various foreign leaders, including Trump.