The United States is set to respect Ukraine’s commitments related to its European Union accession process in an upcoming mineral agreement, as outlined in a ‘Memorandum of Intent’ obtained by Euronews. This document, signed by Ukraine’s First Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko and US Secretary of Treasury Scott Bessent, indicates that significant negotiations are scheduled to occur in Washington from April 21 to 26.
The memorandum emphasizes the United States’ acknowledgment of Ukraine’s intention to prevent any conflicts between the mineral agreement and Ukraine’s obligations under EU accession or agreements with international financial institutions and other official creditors. Earlier in April, Ukraine assured Brussels that its negotiations with the US would not deviate from its EU membership aspirations.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, during a visit to Brussels, highlighted the necessity for the agreement to be a partnership, ensuring equal terms for both parties involved. This statement followed concerns that arose when a draft version of the mineral deal leaked at the end of March, sparking fears it might hinder Ukraine’s EU membership goals.
The proposed US-Ukraine mineral agreement aims to facilitate the development and joint investment in Ukraine’s natural resources, focusing on critical minerals such as lithium, graphite, and uranium. The deal seeks to establish a Reconstruction Investment Fund to aid Ukraine’s post-war recovery, granting the US access to key Ukrainian infrastructure and a share of the profits.
