The United States and Ukraine are on the brink of finalising a historic minerals deal, a pact that could guarantee Ukraine’s long-term security while strengthening economic ties between the two nations.
Kyiv’s Deputy Prime Minister Olga Stefanishyna confirmed today that “nearly all” details have been settled after weeks of intense negotiations between Volodymyr Zelensky and Donald Trump.
She suggested the agreement, which focuses on developing Ukraine’s rich natural resources, could be formally signed in Washington in the coming days.
“This deal will showcase our commitment to a stable, sovereign Ukraine for decades to come,” Stefanishyna stated, raising hopes for a critical breakthrough in Ukraine’s fight for independence from Russian aggression.
Boris Johnson hails ‘victory’ over Putin
The potential agreement has been welcomed by Boris Johnson, who marked the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion by highlighting the strategic blow this deal would deliver to Vladimir Putin.
Speaking to ITV’s Good Morning Britain, the former Prime Minister declared:
“I believe we are very close to getting this minerals agreement signed between the United States and Ukraine, and that commits the US not only to future financing of Ukraine, but also to ensuring a free, sovereign, and secure Ukraine.”
He added:
“This deal is positive for Ukraine – and let’s not forget, the fundamental loser in all this will be Putin. He wants Ukraine to be a vassal state of Russia, but this deal ensures that will not happen.”
According to Mr Johnson, the agreement represents an economic partnership between Kyiv and Washington, which would further isolate Russia. “The two things – a strong Ukraine and a submissive Ukraine – are simply not compatible,” he remarked.
Security guarantees in exchange for economic resources
President Zelensky originally proposed the deal, offering access to Ukraine’s vast reserves of rare earth minerals in exchange for long-term security guarantees from the US.
The negotiations, however, have been fraught with tensions and setbacks.
- Mr Trump has insisted that Kyiv must “make up” for the billions in military aid it has received from the US since the war began.
- Mr Zelensky, in contrast, has refused to accept a loan-based deal that would leave Ukraine in debt for generations.
Despite these hurdles, the Ukrainian leader remains optimistic.
“We are ready to share our resources,” Zelensky said over the weekend, while making it clear that the US must also ensure that Putin “ends this war”.
Keir Starmer to tackle Trump in Washington talks
The upcoming summit in Washington on Thursday is expected to be a pivotal moment in US-Ukraine relations, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer preparing for a potentially tense meeting with Mr Trump.
Ahead of his trip, Sir Keir will hold a group call with European leaders and is expected to confirm fresh sanctions against Russian oligarchs and Putin’s inner circle.
The urgency of the talks has been heightened by growing concerns in Europe over America’s decision to open negotiations with Putin.
NATO sidestepped?
Many Western states are alarmed that Trump’s direct talks with Putin could sideline NATO. Even more troubling for Kyiv is the fact that Zelensky has been excluded from these discussions, with Mr Trump going as far as to label him a “dictator”.
Sir Keir, in conversations with allies over the weekend, has reaffirmed Britain’s “ironclad” support for Ukraine. However, he faces a diplomatic balancing act – ensuring Britain remains committed to Ukraine without jeopardising relations with Trump’s White House.
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European leaders losing patience with the US
As tensions escalate, European leaders have begun to distance themselves from Washington’s shifting stance on Ukraine.
Following his victory in the German elections overnight, the incoming Chancellor Friedrich Merz strongly criticised US interference in European affairs, warning that Europe could no longer depend on America as a reliable partner.
His remarks reflect a growing sentiment across European capitals – that the EU must take greater responsibility for its own security, particularly as Trump continues to undermine NATO unity.
What’s next?
If the US-Ukraine minerals deal is signed, it could mark a major turning point in the war.
- Ukraine would gain a long-term security commitment from America, ensuring continued military and economic support.
- The US would secure access to critical rare earth minerals, reducing its reliance on China while maintaining influence over Ukraine’s economy.
- Russia would face a severe strategic setback, as the deal would further solidify Ukraine’s Western alignment.
However, key questions remain:
- Will Trump ultimately agree to the security guarantees Zelensky demands?
- How will Putin react to the strengthening US-Ukraine alliance?
- Can Europe step up its own support for Kyiv in case US commitment wavers?
As the world watches closely, the outcome of this agreement could shape the future of Ukraine – and global geopolitics – for decades to come.
