After receiving billions in US military assistance, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has refused a Trump administration proposal that would have allowed American companies access to Ukraine’s vast mineral reserves. The rejection comes as Zelenskyy continues to press for further security guarantees from Washington.
Vice President JD Vance presented the agreement at the Munich Security Conference, offering continued US military support in exchange for access to Ukraine’s lithium, graphite, and uranium. These minerals are vital to the defense and technology industries, making the deal a strategic opportunity for both nations.
Zelenskyy dismissed the offer, stating that he blocked the agreement at the ministerial level because it did not sufficiently protect Ukraine’s interests. He has insisted that any resource-sharing agreement must include stronger security commitments from the US.
White House officials have expressed frustration with Zelenskyy’s refusal to cooperate. National Security Council Spokesman Brian Hughes said that the Trump administration’s proposal was a fair deal and that Zelenskyy’s decision was not in Ukraine’s best interest.
Meanwhile, Zelenskyy continues to claim that Russian President Vladimir Putin is planning a direct attack on NATO, possibly launching an invasion from Belarus this summer. He warned that a reduction in US forces in Europe would leave NATO vulnerable to Russian aggression.
While Ukraine prepares a counteroffer, the Trump administration has made it clear that future aid will not come without conditions. Zelenskyy’s rejection of a mutually beneficial agreement raises questions about how much longer Washington will continue providing assistance without returns.
