**Ukraine on the Brink of Signing Historic Minerals Deal with US**
In a major breakthrough, Ukraine is poised to sign a long-awaited minerals agreement with the United States as early as April 30. This development comes after months of tense negotiations between President Volodymyr Zelensky and his American counterpart Donald Trump.
According to sources in the Ukrainian President’s Office, the final version of the deal includes a 50-50 investment structure between the two countries. This marks a significant departure from earlier US proposals that had sought to frame the agreement as partial repayment for Ukraine’s debt on prior military or financial assistance. The actual amount claimed by Trump was up to $300 billion.
This debt has been a contentious issue, especially since Kyiv received just over $100 billion in US aid since Russia launched its full-scale invasion. Ukrainian opposition MP Yaroslav Zhelezniak, who has reviewed multiple drafts of the agreement, said that “the entire logic of the future fund will be changed.” This change would focus on future joint investment projects and reinvestment of profits rather than immediate payouts or transfers of existing infrastructure.
**A New Chapter in US-Ukraine Relations**
The minerals deal marks a new chapter in US-Ukraine relations. It recognizes Ukraine’s past contribution to international security through its voluntary surrender of the world’s third-largest nuclear arsenal under the 1994 Budapest Memorandum. This document, signed by Kyiv and Washington, emphasized that the agreement will not conflict with Ukraine’s path toward EU integration or its obligations to international financial institutions.
One of the major hurdles in negotiations was a clash between US demands and the critical raw materials partnership signed between Brussels and Kyiv in 2021. However, after weeks of tense discussions, both parties seem to have found common ground.
**Implications for Russia**
The signing of this agreement has significant implications for Russia’s involvement in Ukraine. Scott Bessent, U.S. Treasury Secretary, recently stated that the minerals deal would underscore Washington’s commitment to Ukraine as an economic partner and could be used as leverage to encourage Moscow to negotiate an end to its war.
**A Historic Moment**
The signing of this agreement marks a significant moment in Ukrainian history. It demonstrates Ukraine’s ability to navigate complex international negotiations and come out with a favorable outcome. As the conflict with Russia continues, the US-Ukraine minerals deal serves as a testament to their cooperation and shared commitment to rebuilding Ukraine’s economy.
This development comes at a time when both countries need to strengthen their economic ties and cooperation in the face of ongoing aggression from Russia. The fact that they have managed to reach an agreement on this critical issue is a testament to their resilience and determination.
**The Impact on EU Integration**
As Ukraine moves closer to signing the minerals deal with the US, it also takes a significant step towards its integration into European institutions. The agreement explicitly states that it will not conflict with Ukraine’s path toward EU integration or its obligations to international financial institutions. This marks a major milestone in Kyiv’s journey towards full-fledged membership of the EU.
**Conclusion**
The expected signing of the minerals deal by Ukraine and the US is a significant development that has far-reaching implications for both countries. As they move forward, their cooperation will play a crucial role in rebuilding Ukraine’s economy and finding ways to counter Russian aggression.
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