Washington (Reuters) – President Donald Trump’s recent negotiations with Ukraine over a critical minerals deal have the potential to improve relations between Kyiv and the U.S. president, while also garnering support from Republicans in Congress for further aid to the conflict-affected nation. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is scheduled to visit Washington on Friday to sign the minerals agreement with Trump, with the deal being presented as a means to recover American funds spent on supporting Ukraine. Trump announced that Zelenskiy is eager to sign a significant agreement in Washington on Friday, which is crucial for Ukraine’s efforts to secure strong backing from Trump amidst ongoing U.S.-Russian talks excluding Kyiv. Analysts and congressional Republicans believe that a successful deal could lead to increased support from the party, which currently holds the majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, for further aid to Ukraine. While Congress has already approved $175 billion in assistance since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine three years ago, the last funding bill was passed in April under a Democratic-led Senate and President Joe Biden. Republicans faced pressure from Trump, who was hesitant about providing additional military aid to Ukraine, resulting in delays in weapon deliveries and weakening Ukrainian forces on the battlefield. With Trump’s presidency and the Republican-controlled Congress showing reluctance towards further spending, a minerals deal could pave the way for renewed support. Republican lawmakers, including Representative Michael McCaul, expressed that a minerals deal would not only facilitate Republican approval for aid but also benefit U.S. companies and Ukraine through resource development. The proposed deal, described as a “joint economic alliance,” aims to boost Ukraine’s critical minerals sector with U.S. assistance, ultimately benefiting both nations economically while contributing to Ukraine’s defense efforts. Though concerns persist regarding the details of a security agreement, analysts suggest that signing the deal would be a strategic move for Ukraine given the ongoing conflict and losses suffered, while also securing Trump’s backing for Kyiv’s success. Republican Senator Jim Risch, chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, acknowledged the significance of the minerals deal but did not confirm if it would sway further Republican support. However, the deal is seen as a potential opportunity to strengthen relations and secure political backing for Ukraine’s stability and development.
Senator Risch played a crucial role in facilitating the conclusion of the war. “I anticipate a resolution, however, in any resolution, it’s essential for both sides to walk away satisfied and able to demonstrate victory to their supporters,” remarked Risch. (Reported by Patricia Zengerle; edited by Humeyra Pamuk and Deepa Babington)
