Trump Team Eyes Ukraine Mineral Deal; Russia Suffers Heavy Losses in Ukraine War; Europe Faces Ideological Divide

Trump's team is reportedly pursuing a deal with Ukraine concerning rare metal resources, aiming for a comprehensive agreement. This comes after discussions between Trump and both Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy regarding the ongoing conflict. Trump expressed hope for ending the war and saving lives, with the mineral deal potentially serving as a form of repayment for US aid. Russia has allegedly suffered significant casualties in the Ukraine war, with estimates suggesting between 200,000 and 250,000 soldiers killed since the start of the invasion. The UK Defense Ministry stated that Russia's losses are the largest since World War II. Despite these losses, the Kremlin appears prepared to sustain them, prioritizing conflict objectives. Russia is also facing a labor shortage of about 5 million workers, exacerbated by military recruitment. Europe is experiencing an ideological divide, with progressive leadership emerging as a primary ideological adversary to a potential Trump administration. Trump views China as the main geopolitical competitor and seeks to maintain neutral relations with Russia in anticipation of a future conflict with China. He sees European elites as ideological enemies, potentially leading to a shift in US foreign policy and increased instability in Europe.