Sun Feb 23 15:10:00 UTC 2025: **Ukraine Rejects US Rare Earth Minerals Deal, Citing Unfavorable Terms**
KYIV, Ukraine — Ukraine has rejected a US draft agreement concerning access to its rare earth minerals and other natural resources, citing unacceptable terms that fail to provide sufficient security guarantees in return. A source familiar with the negotiations told CNN that the offer is considered exploitative, given Ukraine’s ongoing war with Russia.
The proposed deal, part of wider negotiations aimed at ending the conflict, would grant the US access to critical minerals in exchange for unspecified security commitments. However, Ukrainian officials argue the draft heavily favors the US, placing significant obligations on Ukraine while offering little in return. An official in the Ukrainian Presidential Administration confirmed that no agreement was signed on Saturday, citing the lack of adequate security guarantees as the main sticking point.
The rejection follows days of intense pressure from the Trump administration, which highlighted the potential for an aluminum mine in Ukraine to meet all US annual needs with American investment. While a US official touted the deal as mutually beneficial, reducing US reliance on China and incentivizing increased US support for Ukrainian defense, Ukrainian sources insist the current draft is one-sided and unacceptable.
The disagreement comes amidst escalating tensions between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and former US President Donald Trump, who engaged in a public exchange of accusations. Trump falsely claimed Zelensky started the war, a statement rebuked by Zelensky. Further complicating matters, Ukraine was not invited to recent US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha spoke with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday, emphasizing Ukraine’s commitment to a just and lasting peace. The situation highlights the complexities of negotiating a mutually beneficial agreement during an ongoing conflict and amidst strained diplomatic relations.
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