Technical consultations between the United States and Ukraine on a minerals deal are set to commence in Washington on April 11, Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna confirmed on April 10. The discussions aim to establish a bilateral agreement that aligns with Ukraine’s existing financial commitments to the European Union and the International Monetary Fund.
The initiative, spearheaded by US President Donald Trump, is part of a broader peace effort to end Russia’s war in Ukraine. Trump also views the deal as a means to recover billions of dollars spent on military assistance to Kyiv, despite the aid not being structured as a loan.
Speaking in Brussels, Stefanishyna emphasized that any agreement would respect Ukraine’s obligations to its international partners. “Nothing can be negotiated with Ukraine in a way that will undermine the existing commitments and obligations Ukraine has, including financial ones,” she stated.
The Trump administration has revised its initial proposal, presenting a more comprehensive draft that seeks privileged access to Ukraine’s mineral resources. Kyiv has allocated $2.7 million for consulting services to safeguard national interests and formulate its position on the deal, according to a government document dated April 8.
The negotiations come at a critical juncture, as Ukraine balances its aspirations for EU integration with the strategic importance of its mineral wealth. The outcome of these talks could reshape Ukraine’s economic landscape and its geopolitical alliances.
April 13, 2025 5:49 am
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