MOSCOW — Russia has begun negotiations with the United States over potential cooperation on rare earth metals projects, according to a senior Russian official, as both countries explore diplomatic pathways to ease tensions and lay groundwork for eventual peace talks on Ukraine.

“Rare earth metals are an important area for cooperation, and of course, we have started discussions about various rare earth metals and projects in Russia,” said Kirill Dmitriev, Moscow’s special envoy for foreign investment and economic cooperation, in comments to Izvestia published Monday.

While Dmitriev did not specify which companies have expressed interest, he noted that initial engagement has begun. The U.S. government has not yet confirmed the talks.

The announcement comes amid increased speculation about behind-the-scenes diplomacy between Washington and Moscow following Russia's prolonged invasion of Ukraine and growing pressure from international stakeholders to pursue a negotiated resolution.

Russian President Vladimir Putin previously signaled openness to cooperation with U.S. entities on rare earth projects, including those located in the so-called “new territories”—Ukrainian regions under Russian occupation.

Rare earth elements are critical to manufacturing technologies including electric vehicles, defense systems, and renewable energy components.

The global market is currently dominated by China, prompting Western countries to seek alternative sources.

The reported discussions mark a notable shift in tone amid broader hostilities, though analysts caution that geopolitical and legal barriers remain high, especially with projects linked to occupied Ukrainian land. — Agencies