Ukraine Set to Sign Historic US Mineral Deal on Wednesday, Insider Reveals | CNN

A significant minerals deal between Ukraine and the United States is set to be signed soon, possibly as early as Wednesday. After intense negotiations, a source shared that Ukraine is optimistic about this development.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal mentioned that the country’s economy minister, Yulia Svyrydenko, was headed to Washington to finalize the agreement. He expressed hope that all last-minute details would come together quickly.

This deal has been a work in progress since U.S. President Donald Trump took office again in January. It involves giving the U.S. access to Ukraine’s rich mineral resources in exchange for significant investments. However, past discussions hit snags, particularly around security guarantees that the U.S. might offer Ukraine as part of the agreement.

During a previous meeting, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky suggested that the conditions felt like he was being asked to compromise too much. Since then, Ukrainian officials have suggested that American investment in their resources could lead to better security support from the U.S.

After a troubled meeting at the White House, Trump had temporarily halted U.S. aid to Ukraine, causing concern among Ukraine’s European allies. They responded by reaffirming their commitment to supporting Ukraine.

Zelensky mentioned this agreement as a way for Ukraine to “pay back” the support it has received since the invasion by Russia in February 2022. Details of the upcoming deal remain confidential, but Shmyhal clarified that it won’t cover past aid.

On Wednesday, Shmyhal referred to the agreement as a “strategic partnership,” aimed at establishing an investment fund between both nations. He emphasized that it’s a beneficial arrangement that would see equal contributions and management between the U.S. and Ukraine.

Additionally, Shmyhal noted that new military assistance from the U.S. could count as part of this fund, showing the multifaceted nature of the agreement.

This potential partnership comes as Ukraine’s mineral wealth has attracted global attention. The U.S. Geological Survey identifies Ukraine as having 22 of the 50 critical materials necessary for technology and clean energy.

Historically, China has dominated the rare earth mineral market, highlighting the urgent need for Western countries to diversify their sources. A memorandum signed under the Biden administration outlined plans for promoting investments in Ukraine’s mining sector in return for positive business practices.

This situation echoes Ukraine’s earlier agreement with the European Union, highlighting an ongoing trend toward international partnerships in resource management.

As developments unfold, the global community is closely watching this strategic agreement between Ukraine and the United States.

For more insights on critical mineral resources, visit the U.S. Geological Survey.

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