Ukraine’s parliament voted on Thursday to ratify a minerals deal signed with the United States, paving the way for future military assistance from Washington in the country’s defense against Russian forces. Despite concerns raised by some lawmakers about the lack of information and compromises in the agreement, the ratification received overwhelming support with 338 votes in favor and none against.
First Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko hailed the ratification as a historic milestone in the economic partnership between Ukraine and the United States, emphasizing that the agreement marks a new era of cooperation with a key strategic ally. Questions regarding the specifics of the deal, such as the governance of an investment fund for Ukraine’s reconstruction, were addressed by Svyrydenko in a press conference, assuring that the fund would be operational soon and its success dependent on U.S. involvement.
The agreement, which may take a decade or longer to yield results, comes ahead of Russia’s military parade commemorating the defeat of Nazi Germany. Amidst ongoing ceasefire talks and escalating tensions, Ukraine hopes that the ratification of the minerals deal will strengthen its position and lead to progress in negotiations with Moscow. Despite differing ceasefire proposals from Ukraine and Russia, the ratification signifies a significant step towards enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities and rebuilding efforts.
The minerals deal, signed in Washington last month, grants the United States exclusive access to Ukrainian mineral resources and establishes an investment fund for the country’s reconstruction over the next decade. Following challenging negotiations and diplomatic efforts, the agreement also secures certain benefits for Ukraine, including no repayment of aid and recognition of its aspirations to join the European Union. While the deal is viewed as a positive development by Ukrainian officials, concerns remain about the delivery of crucial defense systems and guarantees for future support.
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy views the agreement as a significant achievement for Ukraine, aiming to strengthen ties with the United States and enhance the country’s security against Russian aggression. The ratification of the minerals deal represents a pivotal moment in Ukraine’s efforts to bolster its defenses and rebuild in the face of ongoing challenges and uncertainty.
During the meeting, certain Ukrainian legislators commended the government’s endeavors to influence Trump’s stance, which initially seemed to lean towards Russia. “Trump’s initial position is gradually shifting, and although progress is slow, it is moving in the right direction,” remarked Inna Sovsun, a lawmaker from the Holos opposition party, in a Facebook post. She acknowledged that while she may not appreciate the deal’s transactional nature, it is crucial to demonstrate that Ukraine is a cooperative player. A survey conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology revealed that 47% of Ukrainians are in favor of the deal, while 22% foresee negative repercussions and 19% believe it will have no impact. (Reporting by Elizabeth Piper, Yuliia Dysa, and Anna Dabrowska; Editing by Gareth Jones)
