Deal unlocks investment in Ukraine’s natural resources as part of post-war recovery
The United States and Ukraine have signed a landmark agreement on the joint development of Ukraine’s mineral and energy resources, marking a strategic partnership that links economic reconstruction with future US security assistance.
A Strategic Move Amid War and Recovery
After months of negotiations, the deal establishes the US-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund, aimed at reviving Ukraine’s war-torn economy and securing long-term peace and prosperity. The pact focuses on critical natural resources, including lithium, titanium, graphite, and rare earths, key materials for clean energy, military production, and industrial use.
The agreement is viewed as vital to Kyiv’s access to future US military aid. President Donald Trump, who has pushed for economic returns on past aid, reportedly conditioned future security guarantees on finalizing this deal.
US Sees Path to Growth and Accountability
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized the pact’s significance, calling it a step toward unlocking Ukraine’s “growth assets.” The announcement also took an unusually firm tone for the Trump administration, describing the conflict as “Russia’s full-scale invasion” and warning that entities backing the Russian war effort will be excluded from Ukraine’s reconstruction.
Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, who traveled to Washington for the signing, called the agreement a milestone in attracting global investment, while ensuring Ukrainian ownership of the resources. She noted that the partnership will operate on a 50:50 basis and still requires ratification by the Ukrainian parliament.
Security Assistance and Rare Earth Access
Under the deal, the US is expected to provide new assistance to Kyiv, including advanced air defense systems, as part of a broader commitment to Ukraine’s defense. In exchange, Ukraine has agreed to grant the US access to parts of its resource wealth, though on more limited terms than initially sought by Trump.
During recent comments to NewsNation, Trump acknowledged pressing Zelensky to finalize the agreement, saying, “Russia is much bigger and much stronger. We have to be smart. Ukraine has assets—rare earths and more—that are incredibly valuable.”
Embed from Getty ImagesDeal Faced Delays and Disputes
The signing follows several setbacks. Originally slated for February, the deal was delayed due to disputes over fund governance and transparency standards. US officials expressed frustration over Kyiv’s attempts to renegotiate already agreed-upon terms.
A breakthrough came after Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met privately at Pope Francis’ funeral, where they reportedly settled final terms.
Though some friction remains, the agreement signals a significant shift in the US-Ukraine relationship—from aid-focused support to an investment-driven partnership designed to sustain Ukraine’s future.
