The United States and Ukraine have finalized a minerals agreement following a two-month delay. This milestone, as described by the Trump administration, signifies a renewed commitment to Ukraine, particularly after the cessation of military aid.
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Ukraine has expressed optimism about securing vital interests through extensive negotiations, notably achieving full sovereignty over its rare earth minerals—resources essential for emerging technologies and largely untapped.
Initially, President Trump sought rights to Ukraine’s mineral wealth as part of compensation for the substantial military assistance provided since the onset of the conflict with Russia three years ago.
Despite initial reservations, Ukraine has embraced this minerals accord, perceiving it as a pathway to attract long-term investment from the U.S. amid Trump’s intention to significantly reduce U.S. security commitments globally.
“This agreement clearly signals to Russia that the Trump administration is committed to a peace process centered around a free, sovereign, and prosperous Ukraine for the long term,” stated Scott Bessent, U.S. Treasury Secretary. He went on to emphasize, “No state or individual that has facilitated Russia’s aggression will be permitted to benefit from Ukraine’s reconstruction.”
In his video address, Mr. Bessent characterized the deal as “historic.”
Prime Minister Denys Shmygal of Ukraine also expressed support for the agreement, calling it “good, equal, and beneficial,” during a televised statement. He further revealed that the two nations would establish a Reconstruction Investment Fund, with each side holding equal voting rights. “Ukraine retains complete control over its subsoil, infrastructure, and natural resources,” he affirmed.
Addressing a significant concern for Kyiv, Mr. Shmygal reassured that Ukraine would not be liable for repaying any “debt” incurred due to the billions of dollars in military aid provided since the Russian invasion began in February 2022. “Profits from the fund will be reinvested exclusively in Ukraine,” he added.
It’s noteworthy to mention that Trump initially sought a claim on $500 billion of Ukraine’s mineral resources, an amount approximately four times larger than the total U.S. aid extended since the onset of the conflict.
### A U.S. Presence Against ‘Bad Actors’
While Trump has been hesitant to offer robust security guarantees to Ukraine and has dismissed its NATO aspirations, he has asserted that a U.S. presence on Ukrainian soil would deter negative influences. “The American presence, I believe, will keep many bad actors out of the country, particularly in the areas we’re exploring,” he remarked during a cabinet meeting.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has warned that the Trump administration may withdraw from mediation efforts in the conflict unless both parties present “concrete proposals.” Trump has advocated for a settlement that considers territorial concessions from Ukraine, a position that has faced resistance from Kyiv, especially regarding Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014 and is rejected internationally.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly ruled out any formal concession of Crimea but has cautiously supported Trump’s diplomatic efforts following a tumultuous encounter with U.S. officials that left tensions high. Mr. Zelensky had been scheduled to sign the minerals agreement at the White House but was abruptly dismissed after a contentious public exchange.
Ukraine possesses around 5% of the world’s mineral resources and rare earths, though many sites remain untapped and are situated in regions currently controlled by Russian forces. Notably, Ukraine holds approximately 20% of the world’s graphite—crucial for electric batteries—according to data from France’s Bureau of Geological and Mining Research. The country also ranks as a significant producer of manganese and titanium and claims to have the largest lithium deposits in Europe.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in Russia occupying about 20% of Ukrainian territory, with more than three years of intense fighting resulting in significant casualties, including among civilians. Recently, Ukraine undertook a surprising incursion into Russia’s Kursk region, leading to claims from Moscow of having expelled Ukrainian forces and reports of civilian casualties.
“This agreement is not just about minerals; it’s about a future where Ukraine stands sovereign and strong,” said Bessent, emphasizing the broader implications of the new partnership.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
