US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Ukrainian Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko sign a deal that gives the United States preferential access to Ukraine's mineral resources.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Ukrainian Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko sign a deal that gives the United States preferential access to Ukraine's mineral resources.

Ukraine and US Seal Key Minerals Pact After Months of Tense Talks

The US and Ukraine have signed a new deal giving Washington access to Ukraine’s critical minerals. In return, the US will help set up an investment fund to support Ukraine’s recovery. This agreement follows months of delays, disagreements, and diplomatic tension.

Ukraine hopes the deal will attract foreign investment, boost jobs, and speed up its post-war recovery. With its economy hit hard by Russia’s invasion, Kyiv needs strong international partners. The joint fund—co-managed by both countries—signals deeper ties and shared interests.

Global Power Shift: Why the US Needs Ukraine’s Critical Minerals Now More Than Ever

The US gains access to rare earths and other key materials found in Ukraine. These minerals are essential for electronics, green energy, and weapons. As the West tries to cut reliance on China, Ukraine’s resources are now more valuable than ever.

Ukrainian officials made it clear: all resources remain under Ukraine’s control. Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko said only Ukraine will decide what to extract and where. This was a key point for Kyiv, and the final deal protects its sovereignty.

An excavator mines rare earth materials in the Zhytomyr region of Ukraine in February 2025, as companies continue operations despite the war.
An excavator mines rare earth materials in the Zhytomyr region of Ukraine in February 2025, as companies continue operations despite the war.

A major change in the deal is that future US military aid will count as part of the investment—not past aid. This gives Ukraine security support without owing repayments. It also shows Washington’s long-term interest in the region.

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US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called the deal “historic” and said it proves America’s commitment to Ukraine’s freedom. He warned that anyone who backed Russia’s war won’t benefit from Ukraine’s rebuilding.

A Win-Win Deal: How Ukraine Secured Economic Support Without Losing Control of Its Resources

The deal almost collapsed in February when Zelensky’s trip to Washington ended early. At the time, Trump refused to offer security guarantees until Ukraine signed. But negotiations resumed, and the final version is more balanced.

Trump claims the US gave Ukraine $350 billion—a false figure. The real number is closer to $120 billion. Still, he says the deal gives America more value and protects its war contributions.

US President Donald Trump and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky openly clashed in the White House on February 28, when they were due to sign an earlier draft of the minerals agreement.
US President Donald Trump and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky openly clashed in the White House on February 28, when they were due to sign an earlier draft of the minerals agreement.

The US now joins the EU in working with Ukraine on critical minerals. Kyiv signed a similar deal with Europe in 2021. With global demand rising, Ukraine is positioning itself as a key supplier.

Though full terms of the deal are still secret, both countries say implementation will begin soon. Delays may still occur due to the war, but this marks a big step in Ukraine’s recovery and global role.