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Proposed US-Ukraine Minerals Agreement Sparks Controversy
A contentious proposal from Donald Trump involving a minerals agreement with Ukraine has been revealed by insiders, with critics likening it to a coercive tactic against President Volodymyr Zelensky. This prospective agreement would grant the United States significant influence over Ukraine’s substantial mineral wealth and critical infrastructure associated with its natural resources, in a manner described as unprecedented in contemporary diplomacy.
Details of the Proposed Agreement
The plan, disclosed by sources, would grant America considerable authority over the sale of Ukraine’s resources. This encompasses the potential to block sales to countries like China or impose restrictions on exports to Europe. Despite the sweeping economic control afforded to the US, the agreement reportedly lacks any security assurances for Ukraine against future Russian aggression.
Reactions and Expert Opinions
These startling proposals surfaced following a recent meeting in Saudi Arabia between US, Russian, and Ukrainian delegations to explore potential steps towards a cessation of hostilities. Alan Riley, an energy law expert at the Atlantic Council, described the revealed document as unparalleled. “There are no assurances, no defense stipulations, the US offers nothing substantive,” he stated, highlighting the perceived one-sided nature of the deal.
Key Components of the Reconstruction Investment Fund
At the heart of the proposal is the establishment of a United States-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund. This fund would assume control over Ukraine’s vital natural resources, including critical minerals and natural gas reserves.
The structure of the fund would heavily favor US influence, with America appointing three out of five board members. Furthermore, the US would secure the primary right to refuse any project proposals. Expanding its oversight, the US would also be empowered to audit the financial records of any Ukrainian government ministry or agency at its discretion.
Parallel Discussions on Gas Flows to Europe
Simultaneously, these discussions are occurring alongside parallel talks between Russia and the United States concerning the restoration of West Siberian gas supplies to Europe on a large scale. This revived energy trade would be routed through Ukraine’s existing gas pipeline network, potentially utilizing the Baltic Sea route once repairs are completed on the damaged Nord Stream pipelines.
Concerns Regarding EU Membership and Ukrainian Sovereignty
Professor Riley further commented on the implications of the deal, stating, “It is incompatible with EU membership, and perhaps that is deliberately intended. I speculate whether the true objective might be to compel Zelensky to reject the offer.”
Developments in Black Sea Ceasefire Agreement
This development follows closely after the White House announcement of an agreement between Ukraine and Russia to establish a ceasefire in the Black Sea. The aim of this localized truce is to ensure safe maritime navigation as both nations explore avenues for a broader peace agreement.
This Black Sea agreement also includes a prohibition on attacks by either country targeting the other’s energy infrastructure. It is portrayed by the Trump administration as a significant step towards achieving a comprehensive ceasefire and ultimately ending the ongoing conflict.
US Role as Guarantor and Divergent Perspectives
The agreements reached in Saudi Arabia originated from discussions initiated by President Trump, who has declared his commitment to swiftly resolving the conflict. “The United States and Russia have consented to guarantee secure navigation, renounce the use of force, and prevent the utilization of commercial vessels for military purposes in the Black Sea,” stated the White House.
Both nations have indicated reliance on the US to enforce these agreements, as negotiations continue in Jeddah. President Zelensky emphasized this point to reporters, stating, “If the Russians violate this, then I have a direct question for President Trump. If they violate, here is the evidence – we request sanctions, we request weapons, etc.”
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov articulated a need for stronger guarantees, remarking, “We will require explicit guarantees. And considering the unfortunate history of agreements solely with Kyiv, these guarantees can only stem from an order from Washington instructing Zelensky and his administration to adhere to specific actions.”
Sanctions and Ceasefire Proposals
As part of the agreement with Moscow, Washington has reportedly pledged to facilitate the restoration of Russian access to markets for its agricultural and fertilizer exports. The Kremlin has indicated that achieving this would necessitate the lifting of certain sanctions currently in place.
These discussions followed separate phone conversations last week between President Trump and Presidents Zelensky and Vladimir Putin. Notably, Putin reportedly rejected Trump’s proposition for a comprehensive 30-day ceasefire, which Ukraine had previously supported.