Ukraine and U.S. Sign Historic Agreement on Critical Minerals Focused on Reconstruction and Security
Ukraine and the United States have signed a strategic agreement for the joint exploitation of critical minerals, aiming at Ukraine's economic reconstruction and strengthening bilateral cooperation.
The Secretary of the Treasury of the United States, Scott Bessent and the Ukrainian Minister of Economy, Yulia Sviridenko, signed the mineral exploration agreement of the European country, on April 30, 2025, in an official image. US DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY HANDOUT (EFE)
Ukraine and U.S. Sign Historic Agreement on Critical Minerals Focused on Reconstruction and Security
Ukraine and the United States have signed a strategic agreement for the joint exploitation of critical minerals, aiming at Ukraine's economic reconstruction and strengthening bilateral cooperation.
On May 2, 2025, Ukraine and the United States formalized a strategic agreement for the joint exploitation of critical minerals within Ukrainian territory. After months of negotiations, the pact stipulates that both countries will equally share the profits from the exploitation of resources such as aluminum, graphite, oil, natural gas, lithium, uranium, and rare earth elements. During the first ten years, all profits will be fully reinvested in Ukraine's reconstruction following the Russian invasion.
The agreement also includes the establishment of the "U.S.-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund," aimed at attracting global investments and accelerating the country's economic recovery. Notably, the pact does not condition Ukraine's entry into the European Union nor require territorial concessions to Russia. Furthermore, it reaffirms Ukraine's sovereignty over its natural resources.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the agreement as "equitable" and "fair," emphasizing its strategic and financial value. The European Union has expressed support for the pact, considering it a positive step toward Ukraine's accession to the bloc.
The final ratification of the agreement is scheduled to take place in the Ukrainian Parliament on May 8, 2025.
Ukraine holds vast reserves of critical minerals essential for the aerospace, defense, and technology industries. It is estimated that approximately 30% of these reserves are located in areas currently occupied by Russia.
The signing of the agreement comes at a symbolic moment, marking the 100th day of U.S. President Donald Trump's term, as he seeks to strengthen strategic alliances and reduce reliance on resources from China.