Trump's plan to develop Ukraine's rare earth minerals is the first step in a larger agreement to end the Ukraine war. The deal benefits the U.S. by giving access to rare earth minerals and helps recoup investments in the war. It also helps rebuild Ukraine's economy and infrastructure, and opens the possibility of improved relations with Russia. Trump's plan addresses the reality that Ukraine is losing the war and allows Ukraine to win the peace. The plan also pushes the Europeans to shoulder more of the burden for their own defense.