Category
Latest news

Ukraine and US Set to Finalize Strategic Minerals Deal, Financial Times Reports

2 min read
Authors
Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko
Dariia Mykhailenko
Author
Ukraine and US Set to Finalize Strategic Minerals Deal, Financial Times Reports
A view of Zavalivskyi Graphite Plant, a Ukrainian enterprise specializing in the extraction of graphite ore and its processing for industrial needs in Zavallya, Kirovohrad Oblast, Ukraine on February 28, 2025. (Source: Getty Images)

The United States and Ukraine are nearing the finalization of a minerals framework agreement, with the signing anticipated as early as this week, according to the Financial Times on April 28. This development follows a significant concession secured by Kyiv that previous US military assistance will not be factored into the new agreement’s obligations.

The breakthrough represents a major advancement after a planned signing ceremony for an earlier version of the agreement was abruptly canceled in February, following a public disagreement between Presidents Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House.

“It was agreed that assistance provided prior to the signing of the agreement will not be counted towards it,” Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal announced via Telegram on April 27.

According to senior Ukrainian officials cited by the Financial Times, the framework will encompass all mineral resources, including oil, gas, and key energy assets across the entirety of Ukrainian territory.

US National Security Adviser Mike Waltz also confirmed during an interview with Fox News that the agreement is close to completion.

“Negotiators worked tirelessly through the weekend,” Waltz stated. “This is the top priority for both Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and the President. It will be signed, the President is determined to make it happen.”

Earlier, France has emphasized that European nations believe that any peace agreement to end Russia’s war must guarantee Ukraine’s territorial integrity.

See all