The United States and Ukraine have finalized a groundbreaking economic agreement establishing a joint reconstruction investment fund to rebuild the war-torn nation. This deal, set to be signed by Presidents Trump and Zelenskyy, commits both countries to co-manage a financial mechanism leveraging Ukraine’s natural resources. However, critical security guarantees remain unaddressed, leaving Kyiv’s immediate defense concerns unresolved.
Under the terms obtained by the Associated Press, the U.S. and Ukraine will equally split revenues from:
- New mineral and hydrocarbon extraction projects
- Infrastructure supporting resource development
- Untapped natural gas and oil reserves
We need clarity on America’s vision for Ukraine’s security before celebrating economic partnerships,Zelenskyy emphasized during a Kyiv press conference.
The agreement explicitly states that 50% of future resource revenues will flow into the reconstruction fund, with no transfer of asset ownership to foreign entities. A senior Ukrainian official confirmed to AP that U.S. investors gain profit-sharing opportunities, not territorial rights – a crucial distinction given ongoing tensions with Russia.
Notably absent from the finalized text is Trump’s earlier demand for $500 billion in wartime compensation. Ukrainian leaders framed contributions as forward-looking investments rather than debt repayments. Zelenskyy stressed: Gratitude for past aid doesn’t equate to financial obligations. This pact protects Ukrainian sovereignty while attracting reconstruction capital.
Analysts highlight three strategic implications:
1. The fund creates economic interdependence lasting beyond current administrations
2. Delayed security talks leave Ukraine vulnerable to Russian aggression
3. Resource profit-sharing avoids conflicts with EU membership requirements
With $0 initial U.S. investment required, the deal positions American businesses to access Ukraine’s $12.4 trillion estimated mineral wealth while bypassing Congressional approval hurdles. However, Kyiv’s push for NATO-style protections remains pending – a gap some experts warn could destabilize long-term cooperation.