Zelenskyy: New US Deal on Minerals and Defense Updates

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Friday that Kyiv has officially received a new draft agreement from the US regarding critical minerals, noting significant differences from earlier proposals. The deal will be compared with previous frameworks shared in talks with Deputy Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko, CE Report quotes Anadolu Agency

Zelenskyy firmly rejected the idea that US military aid to Ukraine should be treated as a loan, stressing that it is not a credit. He also revealed that Ukraine is preparing for high-level military meetings with representatives from France, the UK, and other nations considering sending contingents to Ukraine.

Further, Zelenskyy highlighted agreements with European partners to expand access to intelligence, satellite systems, and ammunition. He confirmed that new defense assistance packages will be announced at the upcoming Ramstein-format meeting in April.

On diplomatic efforts, Zelenskyy voiced skepticism about Saudi Arabia’s role in overseeing Ukraine’s energy infrastructure but mentioned Turkey’s potential in securing the Black Sea. He also noted that Ukraine is actively working to prevent Russian troop buildups near the Kursk region.

Regarding negotiations with Russia, Zelenskyy indicated that Ukraine would only consider dialogue with Russian representatives who offer a real plan for peace, excluding any talks with President Vladimir Putin.