Ukraine is working with the United States to finalize a mutually agreeable minerals deal, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha announced on Tuesday.
Speaking at a press conference, Sybiha confirmed that an initial round of consultations on a new draft had taken place. He emphasized that an agreement ensuring a strong U.S. business presence in Ukraine would bolster the country’s security infrastructure.
“This process will continue, and we will collaborate with our American counterparts to reach a mutually acceptable text for signing,” Sybiha stated.
His remarks followed U.S. President Donald Trump’s claim on Sunday that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy was considering withdrawing from the deal, warning that such a move would have serious consequences.
Washington proposed an expanded minerals agreement after the two nations failed to sign a framework deal during Zelenskiy’s visit to the U.S. in late February, where Trump reportedly criticized him in the Oval Office. According to a summary review, the revised proposal would require Ukraine to allocate all profits from a fund managing its mineral resources to the U.S. until it fully repaid American wartime aid, including interest.
On Friday, Zelenskiy stated that Ukraine would reject any minerals agreement that compromised its EU integration but noted that it was premature to make a final decision on the revised proposal.
