🇺🇸🤝🇺🇦 The U.S. and Ukraine have finalized terms for a critical minerals deal that could unlock Ukraine's vast natural resources while accelerating efforts to end the war with Russia, according to Reuters. The draft agreement focuses on economic reconstruction but notably excludes immediate security guarantees or weapons provisions—a move raising eyebrows globally.
💡 Under the deal, a Reconstruction Investment Fund will channel 50% of Ukraine's mineral, hydrocarbon, and extractive material revenues (minus operating costs) until $500 billion is repaid. The U.S. pledges long-term financial support for Ukraine's stability, while Kyiv gains continued—but unspecified—access to American military aid. President Trump framed it as a 'repayment' for past U.S. aid, declaring, 'The American taxpayer now is going to get their money back, plus.'
⚡ Why it matters: Ukraine holds 22 of 34 EU-classified critical minerals, including 20% of global graphite reserves 🌐🔋—key for EVs and nuclear tech. Critics call the deal 'economic piracy,' but supporters argue it secures Trump’s backing amid Republican skepticism. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, who clashed with Trump over earlier drafts, may visit Washington this week to sign.
🌪️ The bigger picture: The agreement comes as Trump pushes to 'rapidly end' the conflict, proposing NATO-aligned peacekeepers—a plan Moscow rejects. With Europe divided over troop deployments and Kyiv desperate for stability, this deal could reshape post-war geopolitics and energy markets.
