Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has instructed his ministers not to approve a deal that would grant the U.S. access to Ukraine's rare earth minerals. Zelensky cited the agreement's focus on U.S. interests and the absence of security guarantees for Ukraine as reasons for his decision. He stressed the importance of linking mineral exploitation to security assurances against potential Russian aggression, expressing concerns about a 'colonial agreement.'
The proposed deal intended to utilize Ukraine's minerals as compensation for U.S. aid; however, Zelensky underscored the need for security guarantees to prevent Russian aggression. In response, a senior White House official criticized Zelensky's rejection as 'short-sighted,' highlighting the potential for the agreement to strengthen economic ties with the U.S. and deter future threats.