Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is scheduled to meet with US President Donald Trump in Washington on Friday to sign a significant agreement regarding the sharing of Ukraine’s mineral resources. This bilateral deal, described by Zelensky as preliminary, aims to pave the way for further agreements that would include US security guarantees to deter renewed Russian aggression.
During a cabinet meeting, Trump indicated that while the US would not provide extensive guarantees, he believes the presence of American workers extracting rare earth metals in Ukraine would offer “automatic security” for the country. He also suggested that Ukraine should “forget about” joining NATO, reiterating Russia’s claims that NATO’s expansion is a key factor in the ongoing conflict.
Zelensky, however, countered that without security guarantees, a ceasefire would be unattainable. He expressed his desire to explore a NATO-like path for Ukraine, emphasizing the need for robust security measures.
The upcoming meeting is crucial, as it will determine the success of the minerals deal, which has been formally backed by the Ukrainian government. Key details of the agreement have yet to be disclosed, but it is expected to involve an “investment fund” for Ukraine’s reconstruction.
Tensions have arisen between the two leaders over the specifics of the deal, with Trump framing it as a “very big agreement” that would allow the US to recoup its financial support for Ukraine. In contrast, Zelensky has referred to it as a “framework agreement” for future negotiations.
As the situation develops, the international community is closely watching the implications of this deal, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict with Russia and the broader geopolitical landscape. The outcome of the meeting between Zelensky and Trump could have significant ramifications for Ukraine’s future and its relationship with both the US and NATO.
