Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed journalists today, providing key details on a new agreement between Ukraine and the United States regarding mineral resources.
The deal, which has been in negotiation for months, aims to structure future economic cooperation in Ukraine’s resource sector but does not include direct security guarantees.
The press conference, broadcast live by the Ukrainian Suspilne Novyny, Ukraine’s public broadcaster, also covered broader topics such as Ukraine’s relationship with the US under President Donald Trump, negotiations on international security assistance, and the role of foreign forces in supporting Ukraine.
Framework Agreement on Resources: A Partnership, Not Debt
Zelenskyy sought to dispel concerns that the agreement would place a financial burden on Ukraine. He firmly rejected speculation that Ukraine owed the United States any substantial debt due to previous aid.
“There is no $500 billion, no $350 billion, no $100 billion debt,” he stated. “That would be unfair to Ukraine. This is a new agreement, a new model of cooperation. We are not borrowing; we are entering into a partnership.”
The key feature of the agreement is the creation of a joint US-Ukraine resource fund, which will manage investments in Ukraine’s natural resources. “We are not just receiving something; we are creating a fund where 50% of the profits from new projects will go. This means Ukraine has rights and control over its own resources, and the fund is jointly managed by Ukraine and the United States, not by Washington alone.”
Despite finalising the framework, Zelenskyy noted that the details of fund management and investment mechanisms still require further negotiation. “The next step is the agreement on the fund itself, and that will be a serious, more detailed document that must be ratified by the Ukrainian parliament.”
Security Guarantees: Not Included, But Still on the Table
One of the most pressing issues for Ukraine remains the question of security guarantees from the United States. While the resource agreement does not provide them, Zelenskyy made it clear that this would be a key topic in further discussions.
“I wanted at least one sentence about security guarantees in this framework agreement, and it is there,” he said. “It’s not yet a full guarantee, but it’s an important step. Security guarantees are not something we will give up on – they are crucial for Ukraine’s future.”
He emphasised that future agreements must go beyond economic cooperation to include military and strategic commitments. “Without long-term security guarantees, there is no true peace, no lasting ceasefire. The United States understands this, and we will continue negotiations.”
Potential Washington Visit: Securing Continued US Support
Zelenskyy confirmed that discussions are ongoing about a possible visit to Washington later this week. President Trump has suggested Friday as a tentative date, but final arrangements are still being made.
“There is an offer for a visit, and we are discussing it. I want this meeting to bring concrete results. For me, the key issue is securing continued US support – not in the future, but now. Our soldiers, our people, need to know that help will not stop.”
He underscored that his primary concern is to ensure that US military aid remains uninterrupted. “We need weapons now, not later. Any delays in support mean risks on the battlefield. I will be speaking with President Trump directly about this, and I expect clear answers.”
Foreign Military Assistance: Ukraine Exploring Multinational Support
Regarding international military support, Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukraine is in talks with several countries about forming a multinational security contingent.
“There are eight countries now seriously considering participation,” he stated. “We had a meeting in Kyiv with Nordic and Baltic leaders, and they are looking at this idea positively.”
When asked about Russia’s claims that non-European countries such as China and Brazil could be involved in such security discussions, he dismissed the notion outright. “Our security does not depend on Russia’s opinions. Russia has no role in deciding who guarantees Ukraine’s safety.”
He also reiterated that Ukraine’s security remains in its own hands.
“We trust our allies, but our strongest security guarantee is our own army. No matter what deals we sign, Ukraine will maintain the maximum level of defence capability necessary to protect itself.”
Clarifying Trump’s Past Comments on Ukrainian Debt
During the press conference, Zelenskyy also responded to questions about previous statements made by Trump, in which he suggested that Ukraine might have outstanding financial obligations. The Ukrainian president explained that he had personally made it clear to US officials that any agreement must avoid the issue of past debts.
“I told them directly – if there is even one dollar of debt mentioned in this deal, then every country that has helped us will ask for repayment. That would create a dangerous precedent.”
He reiterated that Ukraine is grateful for past US support but stressed that this agreement is about future cooperation. “This is about investment, about partnership, not about settling old accounts.”
Long-Term Implications: What This Agreement Means for US-Ukraine Relations
This agreement represents a shift in the relationship between Ukraine and the United States, moving towards an investment-based partnership rather than direct financial aid. While it does not include security guarantees, it provides a foundation for future cooperation in Ukraine’s resource sector, which could attract further international investment.
However, the absence of immediate security assurances leaves critical questions unanswered. Zelenskyy made it clear that further negotiations are necessary and that Ukraine will continue pressing for guarantees, whether from the US, NATO, or other international partners.
“Our talks with the US are not finished,” he stated. “This agreement is a beginning, but the real question remains – what happens next? What will be America’s role in Ukraine’s future security? That is what we need to define in the coming months.”
What’s Next? Key Meetings Ahead
Beyond the possible Washington visit, Zelenskyy revealed that he is also planning a trip to London for further discussions with European partners.
“After the US, I plan to meet European leaders, including Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Europe and the US must remain united in supporting Ukraine, and we will be working to ensure that unity continues.”
As Ukraine continues to face military threats and economic challenges, the outcome of these high-level diplomatic engagements will play a crucial role in shaping its future.
Read also:
Trump’s “Weapons for Minerals” Proposal: A Betrayal of Ukraine and a Gift to Russia
