Negotiations between Ukraine and the United States over access to Ukraine’s natural resources are in their final stages, with "nearly all key details finalized," according to Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna on February 24.
According to the Kyiv Independent, Stefanishyna stated that both sides are committed to concluding the deal swiftly, though she did not disclose specific details about its terms.
But previous reports indicate that the White House has pushed for a $500 billion claim on Ukraine’s natural resources, including critical minerals, oil, and gas, as a way to recoup U.S. aid.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has so far refused to sign the deal, citing the lack of U.S. security guarantees and the disproportionate financial demand, given that Ukraine has received $100 billion in grants under former President Joe Biden.
Increased Pressure on Zelenskyy
With Donald Trump back in office, the U.S. has escalated pressure on Kyiv to finalize the agreement. Trump has publicly criticized Zelenskyy, calling him a "dictator without elections" and warning that he needs to "move fast, or he won’t have a country left."
Earlier drafts of the deal reportedly sought a 50% U.S. stake in Ukraine’s natural resources, as well as control over critical infrastructure and ports. Zelenskyy has rejected these terms, arguing that Ukraine cannot agree to such a division without clarity on its future security and sovereignty.
One of the most controversial aspects of the proposal is the loan repayment structure, which would require Ukraine to return twice the value of any future U.S. aid.
Zelenskyy pointed out that under the proposed terms, "for every U.S. dollar, Ukraine must return two. In simple terms, this is 100% of the loan."
Despite these tensions, Stefanishyna expressed hope that the deal could be signed in Washington soon.
