The Sticking point: A Mineral Agreement

Negotiations between the United States and Ukraine regarding a mineral resources agreement have hit a snag, with U.S. officials expressing disappointment over the delay. The proposed agreement aims too facilitate the transfer of U.S. profits from raw materials to Ukraine.

• Key Issue: The signing of the mineral agreement.
• U.S. Position: The U.S. believes the agreement is mutually beneficial and hopes for its swift implementation.
• Ukrainian Position: Parts of washington’s proposal are considered politically unacceptable.

U.S. Finance minister Voices Concerns

U.S. Finance Minister Scott Beshent addressed the situation in an interview, recalling a White House meeting during Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelenski’s visit.

“He reached the oval office and failed the easiest deal in the world.”

Scott Beshent, U.S. Finance Minister

Mr. Beshent stated that President Zelenski had allegedly promised to sign the agreement on multiple occasions but has yet to do so.

“Zelenski was ready to sign the agreement that day. And he said, ‘Tell them I will sign the deal in Munich.’ He did not sign it there.”

Scott Beshent, U.S. Finance Minister

According to Mr.Beshent, preparations for the signing where complete on the U.S. side.

Ukraine’s Outlook: Internal Inquiry and Concerns

President Zelenski has reportedly ordered the SBU, Ukraine’s security service, to investigate the leak of details regarding the U.S. proposal.The Financial Times reports that a polygraph is being used in the investigation.

• Investigation Trigger: A member of the Supreme Rada, Yaroslav Zheleznyak, allegedly posted details of the draft agreement in late March.
• Scope of Investigation: The exact number of individuals subject to inspection remains unclear.

Ukrainian authorities have expressed surprise at the scale of the latest US requests.

Challenges and Future Prospects

The situation remains complex, with both sides seemingly committed to finding a resolution. Mr. Beshent suggested that President Zelenski, a former artist navigating a challenging political landscape, might not always receive the best advice.

“Because of some of the people around him, he doesn’t get the best tips.”

Scott Beshent, U.S. Finance Minister

Despite the current impasse, Mr. Beshent emphasized the potential benefits of the Mineral Resources Agreement for both nations. A Ukrainian technical team is expected to arrive in the U.S. soon for further discussions. Foreign minister Sibiga said a round of consultations on a new draft of the mineral deal had already been held.