Ukraine and US Engage in ‘Constructive’ Discussions on Minerals Agreement – Official Statement
Discussions that took place last week between the United States and Ukraine regarding a proposed minerals agreement were described as “constructive” by a senior official who is knowledgeable about the talks.
“The meeting was straightforward, with no issues; everyone stated that the discussions were productive,” the official commented, requesting anonymity, following a meeting in Washington on April 11 that revived talks over a proposed arrangement for Ukraine’s mineral resources.
The official noted that they could not provide specifics about the meeting due to Ukraine’s confidentiality promise, but mentioned that it was “technical” and primarily centered on “legal matters” concerning the wording and “which conditions are more effective.”
The two nations had intended to finalize a deal last month concerning the extraction of Ukraine’s strategically significant minerals, but a highly publicized confrontation between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky interrupted the agreement.
Ukraine’s Justice Minister, Olga Stefanishyna, indicated that the ongoing consultations were “a positive sign in itself.”
“Certain agreements have been reached,” the Ukrainian justice minister remarked, highlighting her expectation for continued discussions, adding that “this is clearly not the final round of negotiations.”
Mr. Trump seeks the deal, which would grant the US royalty payments on profits from Ukrainian mining of resources and rare minerals, in exchange for military and financial support extended to Ukraine by his predecessor, Joe Biden.
