Technical talks between the U.S. and Ukraine on a strategic minerals agreement will begin Friday in Washington, Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna confirmed Thursday, emphasizing the deal won’t compromise Kyiv’s existing financial commitments to the EU or IMF.
Key Details:
⚒️ Deal Scope:
Trump seeks privileged access to Ukraine’s critical minerals (e.g., lithium, titanium) as part of a broader peace push and to recoup non-loan U.S. military aid.
Revised U.S. draft proposes expanded terms vs. initial offer, per Reuters.
🇺🇦 Ukraine’s Stance:
Stefanishyna stressed the deal must align with EU/IMF obligations, calling this “non-negotiable.”
Kyiv allocated $2.7M for consultative support to safeguard national interests.
Why It Matters:
Resource Race: Ukraine holds vast mineral reserves critical for EVs and defense tech—a priority for U.S. supply chain security.
Aid Politics: Trump frames the deal as leverage to recover $113B+ in military aid, though funds were grants, not loans.
EU Tensions: Brussels may scrutinize any deal that risks diverting Ukrainian resources from European partners.
What’s Next?
Technical Talks: Focus on mineral access terms, environmental safeguards, and profit-sharing.
Peace Plan Link: Trump’s team may tie progress to broader ceasefire negotiations.
Investor Watch: Firms like Lockheed Martin (titanium-dependent) eye stable Ukrainian supply chains.