**Both nations aim to finalize a partnership granting US access to Ukraine's vast mineral wealth, crucial for energy and defense industries.**
**US and Ukraine Forge Towards Landmark Minerals Agreement**
**US and Ukraine Forge Towards Landmark Minerals Agreement**
**Negotiations heat up as key deal on mineral resources nears completion.**
Both the United States and Ukraine are reportedly positioned to finalize a critical minerals agreement that will open the doors for American companies to tap into Ukraine's extensive mineral resources. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that they could conclude the deal as soon as Wednesday, despite some unexpected adjustments from Ukraine's side.
Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko was en route to Washington to finalize the negotiations after a positive shift in discussions. According to a draft reviewed by BBC News, the arrangement involves establishing a joint investment fund aimed at mineral exploration, detailing revenue sharing between the two nations. However, a US source expressed concerns over Ukraine's attempts to alter already settled aspects of the agreement.
After extensive negotiations that extended overnight, both teams showcased a commitment to finalizing the terms. Primary points of contention revolve around governance and transparency within the fund, with a focus on ensuring the traceability of funds generated. Treasury Secretary Bessent firmly stated that the agreement remains unchanged from the weekend's discussions.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal express optimism about signing the deal within 24 hours, emphasizing its significance as a fair collaboration aimed at bolstering Ukraine's recovery and investment landscape.
This potential agreement aligns with recent statements from US President Donald Trump, who emphasized access to Ukraine's mineral stocks as vital in the context of an ongoing trade rivalry with China, the current leader in global mineral supplies. The deal not only spotlights the mineral resource sector but also reinforces US support for Ukraine as it navigates ongoing conflict with Russia.
Recent dialogues between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, highlighted by their meeting at Pope Francis' funeral, seem to have softened the previously tense relations, fostering a more cooperative atmosphere in negotiations. Trump's remarks reflected a keen interest in Ukraine's natural resources, amplifying the urgency and importance of this partnership.
The agreement, originally scheduled for signing last February but derailed due to tumultuous exchanges, now awaits final approval from both parties to embark on this joint venture into Ukraine's promising mineral landscape.
Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko was en route to Washington to finalize the negotiations after a positive shift in discussions. According to a draft reviewed by BBC News, the arrangement involves establishing a joint investment fund aimed at mineral exploration, detailing revenue sharing between the two nations. However, a US source expressed concerns over Ukraine's attempts to alter already settled aspects of the agreement.
After extensive negotiations that extended overnight, both teams showcased a commitment to finalizing the terms. Primary points of contention revolve around governance and transparency within the fund, with a focus on ensuring the traceability of funds generated. Treasury Secretary Bessent firmly stated that the agreement remains unchanged from the weekend's discussions.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal express optimism about signing the deal within 24 hours, emphasizing its significance as a fair collaboration aimed at bolstering Ukraine's recovery and investment landscape.
This potential agreement aligns with recent statements from US President Donald Trump, who emphasized access to Ukraine's mineral stocks as vital in the context of an ongoing trade rivalry with China, the current leader in global mineral supplies. The deal not only spotlights the mineral resource sector but also reinforces US support for Ukraine as it navigates ongoing conflict with Russia.
Recent dialogues between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, highlighted by their meeting at Pope Francis' funeral, seem to have softened the previously tense relations, fostering a more cooperative atmosphere in negotiations. Trump's remarks reflected a keen interest in Ukraine's natural resources, amplifying the urgency and importance of this partnership.
The agreement, originally scheduled for signing last February but derailed due to tumultuous exchanges, now awaits final approval from both parties to embark on this joint venture into Ukraine's promising mineral landscape.
