Zelensky Hopes US Mineral Deal Leads to Further Agreements

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed hope that a new mineral agreement with the US will pave the way for future deals, but confirmed that no American security guarantees have been agreed yet.

The deal, described as a “framework” agreement, includes the establishment of a jointly owned investment fund, where Ukraine will contribute 50% of its natural resource revenues. However, Zelensky stated it was "too early to talk about money."

No Security Guarantees, But NATO Path Still Sought

Zelensky acknowledged that he wanted a clause on security guarantees for Ukraine included in the agreement, calling it an important step.

Regarding Donald Trump’s previous remarks that Ukraine should repay the billions of dollars in military aid it has received from the US, Zelensky dismissed any repayment obligation, saying:

"The deal wouldn’t see Ukraine repay 10 cents."

If he meets with US officials at the White House on Friday, Zelensky said he would be “very direct” in asking whether America will continue supporting Ukraine or not.

When asked whether he would walk away from the deal if security guarantees weren’t provided, Zelensky replied:

“I want to find a NATO path or something similar. If we don’t get security guarantees, we won’t have a ceasefire—nothing will work, nothing.”

Ukraine to Contribute 50% of Natural Resource Revenues to Investment Fund

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal also addressed the new fund on Ukrainian TV, stating that Ukraine will contribute 50% of future revenues from "monetisation of all natural resource assets."

"The US will also be making corresponding contributions," he said, adding that the funds would be reinvested into Ukraine’s development, reconstruction, and security.

So far, US officials have not publicly commented on the details of the agreement.

With no firm security guarantees yet in place, Ukraine continues to push for greater assurances on its future defense and NATO alignment.