Ukraine Cautious on US Minerals Deal Proposal for Military Aid

New US Minerals Deal Proposal

• 🇺🇦 Ukraine has officially received a new minerals deal proposal from the United States.
• 🤝 This proposal is part of ongoing negotiations for a peace deal, involving access to Ukrainian natural resources in exchange for military support.

Deal Negotiations and Changes

• 🗓️ Previous attempts to finalize a deal, one in mid-February and another on February 28th, ended unsuccessfully due to significant disagreements.
• 🗣️ Ukrainian President Zelensky stated that the terms of the potential minerals deal have been constantly changing, contributing to the delay.
• ⚖️ Zelensky emphasized that while Kyiv is committed to an agreement, thorough study by lawyers is required before any deal can be ratified by Parliament.

Proposed Financial Terms

• 💰 The latest Reuters report suggests the expanded US minerals deal proposal excludes future security guarantees for Ukraine.
• 🏦 It reportedly stipulates that Washington would receive all initial income from a joint minerals investment fund.
• 📈 Ukraine would only access profits after the money provided since 2022 is repaid, with added interest.
• ⚠️ An earlier version of the deal was apparently more favorable to Ukraine, and Zelensky has stated he will not sign an agreement that impoverishes his country.