Ukraine, United States reach mineral deal agreement to repay aid supplied during the Russia-Ukraine war
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has reportedly reached a mineral deal with the United States to repay aid after tense negations with President Donald Trump’s administration.
The Kyiv Independent reported that the president’s office confirmed that an agreement had been reached.
It is understood that the framework for the deal involves granting the United States access to Ukraine’s mineral wealth, however, figures of the agreement have not yet been announced.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Tense negotiations have played out in recent weeks as Mr Trump sought a form of reimbursement from Ukraine for war aid given during the Russia-Ukraine war.
Mr Trump had spoken about a figure of $500 billion during US TV interviews, with Mr Zelensky disputing the number, claiming it was roughly $100 billion.
Three senior Ukrainian officials, who were familiar with the matter, revealed details on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to speak publicly.
One of them said Kyiv hopes that signing the agreement will ensure the continued flow of US military support that Ukraine urgently needs.
Mr Trump told reporters that Mr Zelensky wants to come to Washington later this week to sign the deal after the two leaders exchanged hostile words last week.
Sources said the visit is scheduled for Friday.
Mr Trump also said there needs to be some form of peacekeeping troops in Ukraine if an agreement to end the conflict is struck. Moscow has refused to accept any deployment of NATO troops.
Mr Trump’s rush to impose an end to Russia’s war in Ukraine has stoked fears of far-reaching US concessions to Russian President Vladimir Putin that could undermine security in Ukraine and Europe and alter the geopolitical landscape.
It was not immediately clear whether the agreement carries any specific US security guarantees that Ukraine had sought or if Washington has committed to sending additional military aid.
One of the sources familiar with the deal said future weapons shipments are still being discussed between Washington and Kyiv.
Mr Trump last week called Mr Zelensky an unpopular “dictator” who needed to cut a quick peace deal or lose his country, while the Ukrainian leader said the US president was living in a “disinformation bubble”.
- With Reuters, AP
