The governments of the United States and Ukraine signed a mineral agreement on the 30th (local time). While the agreement did not include specific safety guarantees for Ukraine, it is reported that it contained favorable provisions for Ukraine, including a declaration of strategic cooperation with the United States and omitting issues regarding compensation to the U.S.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced in a press release that "the United States and Ukraine have signed an agreement to establish the U.S.-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund."
The Treasury stated that "through this economic partnership, the two nations can collaborate and invest together to accelerate Ukraine's economic recovery, recognizing the significant financial and material support the American people have provided for Ukraine's defense since Russia's full-scale invasion." The U.S. government has been reluctant to acknowledge Russia's responsibility for the invasion of Ukraine, but this marks an official mention and recognition.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bechard remarked, "Thanks to President Trump's unwavering efforts to secure lasting peace, I am pleased to announce today the signing of a historic economic partnership agreement between the United States and Ukraine," adding, "This agreement sends a clear signal to Russia that the Trump administration is committed to a peace process centered around a free and prosperous sovereign Ukraine in the long term."
He further stated, "Let me be clear, any country or individual that funds or supplies resources for Russia's war will not benefit from Ukraine's reconstruction," and noted that "the governments of the United States and Ukraine look forward to swiftly implementing this historic economic partnership for the benefit of both the Ukrainian and American people."
According to Bloomberg News, The Washington Post (WP), and the Associated Press (AP), the agreement includes establishing a joint investment relationship regarding mineral resources, oil, gas, and other natural resources between the United States and Ukraine. The two countries plan to establish a joint fund for this purpose. This fund, contributed in cash, will be controlled by the U.S., granting priority to the U.S. for profits transferred from the fund.
In particular, a key aspect of the agreement is to allow for future military aid contributions from the United States to be considered as contributions to this newly established fund.
In addition, foreign media reported that the mineral agreement omitted elements that could hinder Ukraine's future efforts to join the European Union (EU). There had been concerns that preferential treatment for U.S. investors could violate EU regulations, but adjustments have been made to prevent conflicts with Ukraine's EU accession path and the agreement.
Bloomberg News reported that the agreement describes, "In response to the large-scale destruction caused by Russia's full-scale invasion, it strengthens the strategic partnership for Ukraine's long-term reconstruction and modernization." WP analyzed that this phrasing is seen as a victory from Ukraine's perspective.
Ukraine is expected to make more specific security demands in future peace agreement discussions.