Washington, D.C. — The United States and Ukraine have signed a pivotal economic partnership agreement that grants Washington access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals in exchange for establishing a joint investment fund to support Ukraine’s reconstruction, according to a CNN report.
The agreement, signed after several weeks of difficult negotiations, is being hailed as a strategic move to deepen U.S.-Ukraine ties and boost Ukraine’s post-war recovery. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the agreement underlines America’s long-term commitment to a sovereign and prosperous Ukraine. “This deal sends a strong message to Russia that the Trump administration stands firmly with Ukraine,” Bessent stated.
As part of the agreement, a United States–Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund will be created. Both countries will contribute equally and share joint management of the fund. The U.S. may also count new military aid as part of its contribution, although the agreement excludes assistance previously provided.
Ukrainian Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, who signed the agreement on behalf of Ukraine, emphasised that Ukraine maintains full control over its natural resources. “It is the Ukrainian state that determines what and where to extract. Subsoil remains under Ukrainian ownership — this is clearly established in the agreement,” she posted on X.
The deal almost collapsed at the last moment due to a dispute over documentation. It was originally expected to be signed during President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to Washington in February, but tensions during an Oval Office meeting led to a delay and a temporary suspension of U.S. aid. Zelenskyy had previously criticised the proposed terms, calling them akin to being asked to “sell” the country. Since then, Ukrainian officials have expressed belief that American investment will help ensure Washington remains committed to Ukraine’s security.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal welcomed the final agreement, describing it as a “strategic and equal international partnership” focused on long-term investment and development. He reiterated that the agreement marks a new chapter in U.S.-Ukraine relations, one based on shared stakes and mutual benefits.
