In a surprising turn of events, Ukraine has consented to transfer revenue from some of its mineral resources to the United States amidst intense pressure from President Trump. This agreement, revealed on Tuesday, highlights a significant shift in the approach of the three-year U.S.-Ukraine alliance towards a more mercantile basis, as Trump has been vocal about wanting “payback” for prior military aid.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, facing mounting pressure, sought security guarantees from the U.S. in exchange for these mineral rights. Yet, previous draft agreements reviewed showed no solid commitments for Ukraine’s safety against Russia, which has been in an ongoing conflict with Ukraine for four years.
A final draft of the deal was dispatched to Ukraine for signature, involving Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and his Ukrainian counterpart, with a future signing event involving both Zelensky and Trump anticipated. However, Zelensky previously rejected proposals that lacked specific security guarantees as well as over Trump’s demand for mineral rights valued at $500 billion, indicating a complex negotiation process.
