Ukrainian President Zelensky Warns U.S.-Ukraine Mineral Deal Could Collapse Over Aid Demands
February 23, 2025
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a stark warning on Sunday, February 23, 2025, stating that the proposed mineral deal between the United States and Ukraine is at risk of failing. Zelensky emphasized that the agreement could collapse if the U.S. insists on Ukraine repaying the substantial aid it has received.
The deal, which involves the exchange of rare earth minerals, has sparked significant controversy. According to Zelensky, the U.S. has demanded rare earth minerals—including graphite, uranium, titanium, and lithium—worth $500 billion in return for the over $500 billion (approximately 8.13 quadrillion in local currency) in aid previously provided to Ukraine. This aid was channeled during the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine under the administration of former U.S. President Joe Biden.
Zelensky firmly rejected the terms of the agreement, stating that it would place an undue burden on future generations of Ukrainian citizens. “We cannot sign a deal that would compromise the future of our country for the next 10 generations,” he declared. The Ukrainian president also insisted that any agreement must include robust security guarantees for Ukraine from the United States.
Last week, Zelensky refused to sign the mineral agreement, which stipulates that the U.S. would receive 50% of Ukraine’s critical minerals. This decision has heightened tensions between the two nations.
On the other hand, U.S. officials remain optimistic about finalizing the deal. Stevekov, an envoy for former President Donald Trump, and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bon confirmed that the agreement is expected to be signed this week. However, Zelensky’s recent statements suggest that significant hurdles remain.
The proposed mineral deal has drawn global attention, as rare earth minerals are crucial for advanced technologies, including renewable energy systems and defense equipment. Ukraine is home to significant reserves of these resources, making it a key player in the global supply chain.
As negotiations continue, the international community watches closely to see whether the U.S. and Ukraine can reach a mutually beneficial agreement or if the deal will ultimately fall apart.
