Ukraine and the US have reached a draft agreement granting American access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals, according to reports. This deal is crucial for securing US President Donald Trump’s support for Kyiv.

Ukraine Seeks Continued US Military Aid

Meanwhile, a Ukrainian official emphasized that Kyiv hopes the deal will ensure the continued flow of US military aid. Since Ukraine urgently needs this support, finalizing the agreement remains a top priority.

Deal Expected to Be Signed Soon

As planned, both sides aim to sign the agreement as early as Friday. In addition, Ukrainian officials are making arrangements for President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to Washington. Furthermore, the meeting will focus on military aid, making the deal even more important for Kyiv.

Zelenskyy to Meet Trump at the White House

Shortly after the announcement, Trump told reporters that Zelenskyy will visit Washington on Friday to sign a “very big deal.” Previously, tensions had escalated between the two leaders, but now progress appears to be underway.

Moscow Reacts to Possible Peacekeeping Troops

At the same time, Trump claimed Moscow has agreed to consider European peacekeeping troops in Ukraine if a peace deal is reached. However, Russia quickly rejected any NATO troop deployment in Ukraine.

Trump and Zelenskyy’s War of Words

Earlier, Trump called Zelenskyy “a dictator without elections” and claimed his public support was very low. Nevertheless, diplomatic progress followed when retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, Trump’s special envoy, visited Ukraine last week.

Zelenskyy’s Strategy for Stronger Negotiations

Last autumn, Zelenskyy first proposed the mineral deal. Notably, he saw it as a way to strengthen Kyiv’s position in future talks with Moscow. Now, with the deal moving forward, Ukraine hopes to gain more leverage.