Rare Earth Minerals Deal: US and Ukraine Nearing Agreement, But Key Changes Emerge

WASHINGTON D.C (VINnews)-The long-awaited “Rare Earth Minerals Deal” between the United States and Ukraine appears to be nearing its final stages, with both governments signaling a potential signing in the coming weeks. While the deal has been the subject of intense negotiations, recent drafts reveal significant changes that appear to favor Ukraine.

President Donald J. Trump has hinted that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky could travel to the White House next week or the week after to finalize the agreement. The deal, which has been hotly debated over the past week, has undergone substantial revisions, with key concessions made by the United States.

One notable change is the inclusion of a statement expressing the U.S.’s desire for Ukraine to remain “free, sovereign, and secure.” However, the deal still does not explicitly guarantee any specific security or military support, despite Zelensky’s repeated requests for such assurances.

The deal also addresses the establishment of a “Reconstruction Investment Fund,” which Ukraine will contribute to through 50% of all revenue generated from the extraction of minerals, oils, and gas. Importantly, the previous requirement for Ukraine to continue contributing until the fund reached $500 billion has been dropped. Additionally, the stipulation that the fund be 100% controlled by the United States has been removed, with the draft stating that the U.S. intends to provide a long-term financial commitment to support Ukraine’s economic development and attract investments.

The draft also contains a provision regarding the development of mining projects in territories “temporarily occupied by the Russian Federation,” contingent on their de-occupation. This is a significant point, as much of Ukraine’s mineral wealth is located in these disputed areas.