'It's unfair to label us debtors': Zelenskyy clarifies minerals deal with the U.S. - Video
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has addressed recent discussions surrounding a proposed minerals agreement with the United States, emphasising that Ukraine should not be labelled a debtor.
The preliminary deal involves allocating 50% of revenues from certain Ukrainian mineral resources to the U.S., aiming to secure American support in expediting an end to the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Zelenskyy clarified that this arrangement does not entail Ukraine incurring any debt, stating, "The main thing for me is we are not debtors. There is no $500 billion debt in the agreement, nor $350, nor $100 billion because that would be unfair."
The current framework focuses on a revenue-sharing model, establishing a jointly controlled fund to manage the proceeds from state-owned mineral resources. While the agreement is part of broader discussions that could potentially encompass future security guarantees, no specific assurances have been confirmed at this stage.
The finalised agreement is expected to be signed following further discussions between Presidents Zelenskyy and Trump on Friday, February 28.
Zelenskyy has consistently maintained that financial aid received during the conflict should not be construed as debt, expressing concerns about agreements that could impose long-term financial burdens on Ukraine.
He emphasised the importance of fair and equitable partnerships, stating, "I'm not going to sign something that ten generations of Ukrainians will be paying for."
