Zelenskyy Halts Rare Metals Deal with US, Citing National Interests
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Saturday that he blocked a proposed agreement with the US on rare metals, arguing it does not align with Ukraine’s national interests, CE Report quotes Anadolu Agency
Speaking at a press conference in Munich, Zelenskyy emphasized his responsibility to ensure the deal benefits Ukraine. "I did not allow ministers to sign the agreement because, in my opinion, it is not yet ready," he stated.
The proposed deal gained attention after former US President Donald Trump suggested in an interview that the US might seek repayment of aid to Ukraine, potentially in the form of rare earth metals worth $500 billion.
Zelenskyy stressed that any agreement must secure investments, outline profit distribution, and connect resource extraction to security guarantees for Ukraine. He reiterated that the country's natural wealth belongs to its people and future generations.
Inviting American and European companies to participate in mining projects, he assured priority access to those who have supported Ukraine. "But it is not mine to take or give; it’s a very serious matter," he concluded.
