Catenaa, Friday, May 02, 2025-The White House on Wednesday announced a landmark economic partnership agreement with Ukraine, granting the US access to Kyiv’s critical minerals in exchange for joint investment, after months of tense negotiations and political standoffs.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the deal after President Donald Trump personally pressured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to sign off, saying it ensures American interests are protected.
Leavitt also charged Amazon-style skepticism at the process, accusing Ukraine of previously resisting transparency and warning against foreign exploitation, while emphasizing that “Ukraine remains the rightful owner of its resources.”
The agreement establishes a joint investment fund between the US and Ukraine, with both countries contributing equally. Future American military aid can be counted as part of the US investment, though prior assistance will not be reimbursed — a key sticking point in earlier drafts.
“This is a historic economic partnership that sends a clear signal to Russia,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said. “The United States stands with a sovereign Ukraine — and no entity supporting the Russian war machine will benefit from Ukraine’s reconstruction.”
The deal had faced repeated delays, including a failed February signing during a contentious Oval Office meeting. Ukrainian officials initially viewed the draft as heavily tilted toward US interests, but revisions made it more balanced, Kyiv said.
Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal confirmed Ukraine retains full ownership of its mineral deposits. The country holds reserves of 22 out of 50 US-classified critical materials, including rare earths vital to defense and green technologies.
Zelensky’s government hopes US involvement will deepen America’s security commitment. The deal also responds to Western efforts to reduce reliance on China, which dominates global rare earth supply.
While no full timeline for implementation has been shared, officials on both sides say they aim to operationalize the partnership swiftly.
