Ukraine Ready to Resurrect Mineral Deal with US, Says Zelensky

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed his readiness to revive the aborted mineral deal with the United States, signaling a potential shift in geopolitical negotiations. The move comes after British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s announcement of a “Coalition of the Willing” aimed at bolstering support for Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. However, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has emphasized that any agreement should be preceded by a peace deal with Russia, casting uncertainty over whether the United States will proceed with the proposed pact.

The mineral deal, initially planned as a strategic collaboration between Ukraine and the U.S., was halted amid escalating tensions and diplomatic challenges. Ukraine is rich in critical minerals such as lithium, titanium, and rare earth elements—resources that are crucial for global technology and defense industries. Zelensky’s renewed offer to sign the agreement is seen as an attempt to attract economic and military support from Western allies while reinforcing Ukraine’s strategic importance on the global stage.

In parallel developments, Britain and France have been actively working on a ceasefire plan, proposing a one-month truce as a preliminary step toward lasting peace in the region. The proposal includes the deployment of peacekeeping troops to Ukraine, a move that underscores European efforts to de-escalate the conflict. During a high-level summit, European leaders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Ukraine, with NATO Secretary General calling for increased defense spending among member states to counteract ongoing threats.

Despite these diplomatic efforts, tensions between Ukraine and the United States remain evident. A recent Oval Office meeting between President Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly ended without a concrete agreement, highlighting persistent differences in their approaches to the war and Ukraine’s economic recovery. While Washington remains one of Kyiv’s key allies, the lack of immediate consensus raises questions about the future trajectory of U.S.-Ukraine relations.

As the situation continues to evolve, international observers are closely monitoring how geopolitical alliances will shape Ukraine’s future. The mineral deal, if finalized, could provide Ukraine with much-needed economic relief and technological advancements while deepening its ties with the West.