Ukraine and the United States have reached an agreement on a draft mineral deal, granting the U.S. access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals, as reported, citing Ukrainian officials.
Agreement Tied to U.S. Support
This deal is crucial for securing US President Donald Trump’s backing for Kyiv. Moreover, a Ukrainian official stressed that Kyiv views the agreement as essential to maintaining the flow of U.S. military aid, which Ukraine urgently needs for its defense.
Agreement Set for Signing
According to officials, the deal could be signed as early as Friday. Furthermore, plans are in motion for President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to travel to Washington. Another official highlighted that the agreement would allow Zelenskyy and Trump to discuss military assistance, making it vital for Kyiv to finalize the deal without delay.
Zelenskyy’s Visit to the White House
Meanwhile, Trump informed reporters that Zelenskyy intends to visit Washington on Friday to sign a “very big deal.” This development comes after weeks of tension between the two leaders.
Additionally, Trump asserted that Moscow had agreed to consider deploying European peacekeeping forces in Ukraine if a resolution is reached. However, Russia firmly opposed the idea of NATO troops in Ukraine.
Strained Relations Between Trump and Zelenskyy
Previously, Trump referred to Zelenskyy as “a dictator without elections” and claimed that his public support was diminishing.
Nevertheless, progress was made when retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, Trump’s special envoy to Ukraine and Russia, completed a three-day visit to Kyiv last week. His discussions helped push negotiations forward.
Zelenskyy originally proposed the mineral deal last autumn. Notably, he believes it will strengthen Ukraine’s position in future talks with Moscow.