Ukraine and US Near Historic Minerals Deal Amid Strategic Resources Negotiations**

As negotiations progress, Ukraine seeks to leverage its rich mineral deposits for economic support from the US, while addressing issues of control and security assurances.**

In recent developments, Ukraine is positioned to finalize a significant deal with the United States concerning access to its vast mineral resources, potentially reshaping the geopolitical landscape amid ongoing hostilities. Deputy Prime Minister Olga Stefanishyna recently shared on social media that talks have been “constructive” and nearly concluded, emphasizing a swift resolution for the signing of the agreement.

President Zelensky's initiative to present a minerals agreement arose from his victory plan outlined during conversations with Donald Trump last September. Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson highlighted the importance of this collaboration, referring to it as “the great prize,” vital for ensuring a continuous commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty.

Ukraine is rich in critical minerals, with estimates suggesting it holds approximately 5% of the world’s essential raw materials. This includes 19 million tonnes of graphite, placing Ukraine among the top five suppliers globally. The country also boasts one-third of Europe's lithium deposits, crucial for modern battery technology, and had, prior to the invasion, a 7% share in global titanium production. The presence of significant rare earth metal deposits further underscores the strategic value of these resources.

However, the ongoing war has complicated matters, with substantial portions of these mineral deposits now in Russian-controlled areas. Ukrainian Minister of Economy Yulia Svyrydenko mentioned that assets amounting to $350 billion, including vital mining resources, are blocked in these territories. Analysts, such as Dr. Robert Muggah from SecDev, suggest that the minerals offer both economic and strategic advantages to Russia, impeding Ukraine’s potential revenue.

The US's interest in Ukrainian minerals stems from a desire to decrease its reliance on Chinese exports, which dominate the global rare earth market—controlling 75% of resources. Complicating negotiations, Zelensky has pushed back against proposed US demands that included shared ownership of the minerals, rejecting what he termed as “selling our state.”

While earlier drafts of the deal faced criticism for suggesting a more exploitative approach—seeking greater control by the US—the current proposals seem to lean towards collaborative exploration efforts. Iryna Suprun, CEO of the Geological Investment Group, suggests that American investment could provide necessary technology and infrastructure for Ukraine's mining industry. As negotiations proceed, both parties remain focused on reaching an agreement that balances national interests with economic growth opportunities.