Ukraine Strikes Major Minerals Deal with US Amid War and Security Talks.

Ukraine has secured a significant minerals agreement with the United States, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal confirmed in a recent television interview. The deal is expected to bolster Ukraine’s economic future while strategically positioning the US in the critical minerals sector.

What Does the Deal Involve?

Shmyhal stated that the agreement includes a clause wherein the US supports Ukraine’s pursuit of long-term security guarantees, a crucial step toward establishing lasting peace. Additionally, an “investment fund” will be created for Ukraine’s reconstruction, co-managed by Kyiv and Washington on equal terms.

Media reports indicate that Washington initially demanded rights to $500 billion in revenue from Ukraine’s natural resources but has since dropped that condition. However, no firm security guarantees have been provided yet.

Trump’s Take on the Agreement

US President Donald Trump, who expects Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to visit Washington to sign the deal this week, made striking remarks about the war. He acknowledged Ukraine’s resilience but stressed that without US financial and military aid, the war would have ended “in a very short period of time.”

Regarding future arms supplies to Ukraine, Trump stated, “Maybe until we have a deal with Russia… We need to have a deal, otherwise it’s going to continue.” He also suggested a potential role for “peacekeeping forces” in post-war Ukraine, provided the arrangement is acceptable to all parties.

Ukraine’s Rich Mineral Resources: A Strategic Asset

Ukraine holds vast deposits of essential minerals and energy resources, including:

• Lithium and titanium – Crucial for advanced technology and defense industries.
• Coal, oil, and natural gas – Key to energy security and economic stability.
• Uranium – Important for nuclear energy.

With these valuable resources, Ukraine has long been a sought-after player in global supply chains. This new deal could further strengthen the country’s economic resilience.

Geopolitical Implications: The Shift in US Foreign Policy

The agreement signals a significant shift in US foreign policy. Historically, American aid—whether through the Marshall Plan, Cold War strategies, or Bush-era democracy promotion—was granted with fewer strings attached. Now, under Trump’s “America First” approach, foreign aid is being restructured to ensure financial returns for US taxpayers.

Trump made it clear that the US expects to recoup its financial support: “We want to get that money back… The American taxpayer is going to get their money back plus.”

Zelensky’s Stance: Protecting Ukraine’s Sovereignty

Zelensky previously rejected US demands for a $500 billion stake in Ukraine’s minerals, emphasizing that “I can’t sell our state.” He also accused Trump of being influenced by Russian disinformation, highlighting the strategic complexities at play.

Russia’s Counteroffer and European Concerns

Russian President Vladimir Putin added a new twist, offering the US access to rare minerals from Russian-occupied Ukrainian territories. He also claimed that Russia possesses “significantly more resources of this kind than Ukraine.”

This development has sparked concerns in Kyiv and across Europe, particularly given the recent US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia. Many fear that a potential US-Russia arrangement could sideline Ukraine and reshape Europe’s security landscape without their input.

What’s Next?

As Ukraine and the US solidify their economic and strategic partnership, the international community watches closely. Will these minerals deal lead to stronger security commitments for Ukraine, or will it mark a turning point in US global engagement under Trump? One thing is clear—Ukraine’s vast natural wealth has become a key factor in the evolving geopolitical chess game.

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