In a major development, Ukraine has signed a new agreement with the United States that gives the U.S. access to Ukraine’s rare minerals and natural resources, while helping Ukraine recover economically after years of war with Russia.
The deal also marks stronger cooperation between the two nations under the Trump administration, which is aiming to end the three-year-long conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
What Is the U.S.–Ukraine Deal About?
The agreement sets up the United States–Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund, which will support Ukraine’s economic recovery by attracting global investment. The fund will run for 10 years and aims to be an equal partnership, with neither country having majority control.
Ukraine’s Economy Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko visited Washington, D.C., to finalize the deal. She confirmed on social media platform X that the partnership would boost global investor confidence and assist with Ukraine’s rebuilding efforts.
U.S. Gets Access to Critical Minerals
As part of the deal, the United States will gain access to over 20 strategic raw materials from Ukraine. These include not only rare earth minerals but also natural gas and oil. Key resources include:
- Titanium (used in aircraft manufacturing)
- Uranium (for nuclear power and medical equipment)
- Lithium, graphite, and manganese (for electric vehicle batteries)
President Donald Trump had earlier made U.S. access to these resources a condition for continued military aid, referring to it as a type of reimbursement for U.S. support.
Focus on Long-Term Peace and Prosperity
According to U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, the agreement is a strong message to Russia that the United States remains committed to Ukraine’s future.
“This agreement signals clearly to Russia that the Trump Administration is committed to a peace process centered on a free, sovereign, and prosperous Ukraine,” Bessent said.
He also stated that any person or entity that supported the Russian war machine will be barred from benefiting from Ukraine’s reconstruction.
Ukraine Maintains Control and EU Ambitions
Unlike earlier drafts of the agreement, this version does not interfere with Ukraine’s plans to join the European Union — a critical requirement for Kyiv.
Ukraine will retain control over where and how mineral extraction takes place, Svyrydenko confirmed.
The deal will be supported by the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, and U.S. contributions to the fund will come in cash, with new military aid counting toward America’s share.