US and Ukraine Minerals Deal Nears Signing Amid Economic and Climate Discussions

US-Ukraine Minerals Deal Developments

• 🇺🇸 A potential minerals deal between the US and Ukraine, previously stalled, appears to be nearing signing, with a draft agreement circulating.
• 💰 Original drafts proposed a joint fund for exploiting Ukraine's resources (oil, gas, minerals, ports), with profits split, but Ukraine starting with a significant debt for past aid.
• 🤝 The latest draft reportedly removes the debt component, counting future US contributions as investments, a significant concession for Ukraine's negotiating team.
• ❓ Despite progress, uncertainty remains about the final details and whether the deal will be signed, with earlier drafts being more extensive.

US Economic Performance and Political Reactions

• 📉 US GDP contracted by 0.3% in the first three months of the year, the first shrinkage since 2022.
• 🗣️ President Trump has blamed former President Biden for the "bad numbers," though the administration argues tariffs haven't had their full impact yet.
• ⚠️ Economic uncertainty, driven by tariffs and stock market volatility, is causing consumers to postpone major purchases.

Shifting US Foreign Policy Stance

• 🇷🇺 A potential shift in Trump's language towards Russia, including condemnation of attacks on civilian areas, is noted.
• 💡 This shift may be influenced by recent events and a realization that President Putin might be