Zelenskyy on New Mineral Agreement Draft: Ukraine Does Not See US Military Aid as Debt

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated during a press briefing on March 28 that Kyiv has received a new agreement draft from the US regarding critical minerals, which “differs completely from the previous framework document.”

Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine will not view the military aid it receives as a debt:

“We are grateful for the support, but this is not a loan, and we will not accept it as such.”

He did not provide further details on the draft agreement.

In addition, Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine will hold a meeting with representatives of the General Staffs of key countries willing to provide contingents. The US will also consult with Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and European nations about their readiness to conduct monitoring.

Zelenskyy also stressed that Putin fears negotiations:

"Putin finds one excuse after another to avoid ending the war. He fears talks with Ukraine. I believe he has no arguments in negotiations with Ukraine, and he is delaying any negotiation process. But there is little pressure on him,” he said.

“It is very important for us that the US recognizes this. All of Europe (99%) understands it, and Europe will continue to support sanctions. For us, it is crucial that the US joins the sanctions pressure as much as possible."

Earlier, it was reported that the United States has proposed a new comprehensive agreement to Ukraine focused on critical mineral resources. According to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a meeting with journalists on March 25, the draft does not include any provisions related to nuclear power plants.