U.S., Ukraine sign major deal on 57 critical minerals, linking resource access to military aid

European Pravda reported the information, citing the document.

According to the signed document, the new American-Ukrainian Investment Fund for Reconstruction will focus on developing Ukraine’s reserves of 57 minerals, including lithium, uranium, cobalt, and rare earth elements. The agreement ensures that U.S. companies will have fair access to new mining projects, but does not grant them exclusive rights or a “first pick” over other international investors. Importantly, the deal also guarantees that Ukraine’s legal system will not be subordinated to U.S. law, with disputes to be resolved through equal consultation.

The agreement also outlines that revenues from the sale of mining licenses and royalties will be invested into the joint fund, which will help finance Ukraine’s reconstruction. The U.S. contribution to this fund will include new military aid, with the value of weapons, technology, and training provided to Ukraine counted as part of America’s investment. However, the document does not cover revenues from other minerals or Ukrainian infrastructure, nor does it specify how the fund will be managed or how profits will be reinvested—issues that are expected to be addressed in a forthcoming technical agreement.

While the deal marks a significant step in U.S.-Ukrainian relations, it is largely a political framework at this stage. Many of the operational details, including fund governance and long-term reinvestment commitments, remain to be negotiated. The agreement reflects both countries’ intent to strengthen economic ties and support Ukraine’s defense, but the full impact will depend on the technical arrangements still to come.

• On April 30, Ukraine and the United States signed an agreement to establish the Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund.