Bangladesh, April 12 -- In a move that has sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles, the administration of US President Donald Trump is reportedly demanding control over a critical gas pipeline in Ukraine as part of a broader minerals deal currently under negotiation with Kiev. The deal, ostensibly focused on granting US access to Ukraines lucrative rare-earth metal reserves, has now emerged as a geopolitical battleground, revealing Washingtons deeper strategic ambitions.

According to a Reuters report published on April 11, the controversial demand is embedded in the fine print of the latest draft agreement – described by insiders as an “Easter egg” – and is part of a growing list of what Ukrainian officials are...