President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to visit Washington, DC in the near future following an agreement between the US and Ukraine regarding natural resources and reconstruction efforts. A Ukrainian official confirmed that the deal includes granting the US access to Ukraine's rare earth minerals as part of the negotiations to halt Russia's invasion, along with US participation in a reconstruction fund for Ukraine.
The official stated that the terms of the agreement were finalized after removing any unacceptable elements and clearly outlining how the deal would enhance Ukraine's security and promote peace.
While specific details of the deal have not been disclosed, a significant point of contention was the Trump administration's request for a $500 billion share of Ukraine's rare earths and other minerals in exchange for the aid previously provided to Kyiv, a demand that Zelensky turned down.
President Donald Trump described the agreement as 'a very big deal' and mentioned that he had heard about Zelensky's upcoming visit on Friday. When asked about what Ukraine would gain from the deal, Trump mentioned a figure of $350 billion, along with the provision of military equipment and the authorization to engage in combat.
Trump expressed confidence in the negotiations related to rare earth minerals and other aspects, indicating that future discussions on Ukraine's security would follow. He also mentioned having conversations with Russia on the matter, noting their apparent understanding that once the agreement is in place, there would be no turning back.
