US, Ukraine agree on critical minerals deal amid talks to end Russia war: Report

The United States and Ukraine have finalised a minerals deal amid rising tensions between the two nations as Washington aligns with Moscow in efforts to end the Ukraine-Russia war, news agency Reuters reported. Ukrainian officials hope the agreement will improve ties with the Donald Trump administration and lay the groundwork for a long-term US security commitment.

The White House considers the deal a first step toward reaching a ceasefire with Russia. The agreement comes after a war of words between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, whom Trump last week called an unpopular “dictator” who needed to cut a quick peace deal or lose his country.

According to Ukrainian officials, Kyiv is now prepared to sign an agreement with the US for the joint development of its mineral resources, including oil and gas, after the US withdrew its demand for a $500 billion share in potential revenue from resource exploitation, Financial Times reported.