Moving beyond traditional foreign aid, some of the world’s least-developed countries are now reportedly paying lobbyists with close ties to Donald Trump in the form of critical minerals to gain access and influence in Washington. Nations such as Somalia, Yemen, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are signing multi-million-dollar contracts, signaling a profound change in the dynamics of international engagement.
At the core of these unconventional arrangements are firms like Ballard Partners and BGR Government Affairs, both known for their deep connections to Trump’s political network. These powerful lobbying groups are allegedly facilitating deals that circumvent established international aid mechanisms, providing a direct channel for resource-rich nations to trade tangible assets for U.S. political and military support.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo serves as a prime example, reportedly offering its extensive reserves of lithium, cobalt, and coltan—minerals indispensable for America’s burgeoning tech and defense sectors. In exchange for access to these vital resources, the DRC is seeking crucial military and diplomatic backing from the United States, highlighting the strategic value of its geological wealth.
Concerns are being voiced by experts who warn that these transactions blur the ethical lines between genuine foreign policy and private profiteering. The potential for U.S. global engagement to be shaped more by the financial incentives offered by lobbyists than by considered national interests raises significant questions about transparency, accountability, and the long-term implications for global relations.