Ukraine still ‘ready’ to sign US minerals deal, Zelensky says

Ukraine still ‘ready’ to sign US minerals deal, Zelensky says

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reiterated that Ukraine remains fully prepared to sign a long-anticipated minerals agreement with the United States—a deal viewed as pivotal for the nation’s economic recovery and post-conflict reconstruction.

The proposed minerals deal aims to harness Ukraine’s vast natural resources—including rare-earth elements, oil, and gas—to fuel economic development. Under the terms being discussed, the revenue from resource extraction would be shared equally between the United States and Ukraine, with Ukraine’s portion earmarked for rebuilding critical infrastructure and boosting foreign investment. This strategic revenue-sharing model is expected to create a win-win scenario, bolstering Ukraine’s energy independence while opening up new opportunities for American companies operating in the country.

The announcement comes on the heels of a highly charged Oval Office meeting between President Zelensky and former President Donald Trump. During that encounter, discussions over the minerals deal turned contentious—an episode marked by sharp exchanges that momentarily stalled progress. Despite the diplomatic friction, Zelensky stressed that Ukraine’s commitment to the agreement remains unshaken. “Our nation’s future depends on leveraging every opportunity for growth,” he said, emphasizing that unresolved tensions will not derail efforts to secure a stable economic future.

For Ukraine, the minerals deal is more than a commercial arrangement; it is a strategic partnership that promises to unlock significant economic resources. As the country continues to navigate the challenges of an ongoing conflict and strives to rebuild its economy, the agreement represents a critical step toward securing international investment and support. In addition to bolstering economic stability, the deal is seen as a means to reinforce Ukraine’s broader security framework by reducing its reliance on external energy sources.

While Ukrainian officials and business leaders have welcomed the prospect of the minerals deal as a necessary catalyst for economic revival, critics caution that the agreement’s terms must be carefully scrutinized to ensure they serve Ukraine’s long-term interests. Questions remain about whether the proposed revenue-sharing model and regulatory safeguards will adequately protect Ukraine’s sovereignty over its natural resources. Nevertheless, Zelensky’s firm declaration of readiness underscores a broader national resolve: even amid external pressures and domestic debates, Ukraine is determined to pursue policies that promise sustainable growth and stability.

As negotiations continue, the international community is watching closely. The success of the minerals deal could not only reshape Ukraine’s economic landscape but also signal a deepening of U.S.–Ukraine strategic ties at a time when global energy security and economic recovery are top priorities. With both sides committed to ironing out the remaining details, Ukraine’s readiness to sign the agreement sends a clear message: the nation is poised to capitalize on its natural resources to build a more resilient future.

In a period defined by rapid change and geopolitical uncertainty, Zelensky’s steadfast focus on economic empowerment through strategic partnerships remains a beacon for Ukraine’s recovery efforts, even as the world grapples with broader international challenges.