Ukraine has reached a preliminary agreement with the United States on a significant deal regarding rare minerals, according to a Ukrainian government source. The deal, which could be finalized soon, is expected to pave the way for a new long-term partnership between Ukraine and the U.S. However, it notably does not include a security guarantee for Ukraine, a demand that Kyiv had hoped for amid ongoing tensions with Russia. However it is excepted that a security guarantee would be part of the deal when it eventually reaches a more advanced stage in the negotiation.
U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed on Monday that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to sign the agreement, which will likely be done during a meeting between the two leaders on Friday. The deal focuses on trading rights to Ukraine’s valuable natural resources, including rare earth minerals, in exchange for continued U.S. support, including financial aid and military assistance.
The agreement has evolved, with earlier demands for $500 billion in potential revenue from Ukraine’s resources now removed from the document. Trump sees the minerals deal as a way for the U.S. to recoup its substantial financial and military investment in Ukraine’s defense against Russia.
However, a key Ukrainian request for security guarantees in the event of a ceasefire with Russia has not been included in the agreement. Kyiv had hoped to secure a formal commitment from Washington to protect its sovereignty in such a scenario. Ukrainian officials have indicated that further negotiations may provide additional clarity on the partnership’s specifics.
Details of the deal are still being finalized, with more information expected after the upcoming U.S.-Ukraine discussions.
Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky AP pic Via FMT CC BY 4 0
