Zelenskyy: US-Ukraine mineral deal could unlock $30B in arms aid, bolster sovereignty

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has hailed a new mineral resources agreement with the United States as a “win-win” initiative that could unlock $30 billion in military aid, provide critical air defense systems,and serve as a long-term economic and strategic buffer against Russian aggression.

Speaking to journalists in Kyiv on Saturday following talks with U.S. President Donald Trump, Zelenskyy described the proposed deal as “historic,” noting that it would establish a joint investment fund to support the extraction and processing of strategic minerals in Ukraine. In return, the agreement would open the door for American investment, enhanced military support, and a deeper economic partnership.

“This mineral resources deal is beneficial for both sides,” Zelenskyy said, according to remarks published by Interfax-Ukraine. “We aim to defend our territory and our people with air defense systems. That’s why we’re ready for these systems to be part of the deal.”

Zelenskyy confirmed that Kyiv had submitted a list of air defense requirements to Washington, and Trump had shown readiness to consider the request. However, the Ukrainian leader stressed that such systems would need to be purchased, not donated, under the terms of the fund.

$30 Billion Military Aid Framework

The Ukrainian president referenced two tranches of U.S. military aid—$15 billion each for 2025 and 2026—previously approved by Congress. Under the mineral fund framework, both tranches could potentially be advanced and delivered in 2025, with Ukraine gradually repaying its share.

“This would be a $30 billion U.S. contribution, and Ukraine would repay its share gradually. That’s the kind of deal we’re discussing,” Zelenskyy said.

The proposal would also enable duty-free export of raw materials to the U.S., while laying the groundwork for value-added manufacturing within Ukraine. One of the targeted mineral zones is located near Pokrovsk in Donetsk, a front-line area near ongoing conflict with Russian forces.

Strategic and Political Implications

Zelenskyy described the deal as a form of economic insurance for U.S. companies and a strategic shield for Ukraine. “Trump told me personally... Russia won’t touch Ukraine, because we’re partners now,” he said.

He also revealed that he raised the issue of expanded U.S. sanctions on Russia during the meeting with Trump, calling the response “very powerful,” though he declined to offer details.

If finalized, the deal could significantly strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities and provide critical foreign investment into its embattled economy, while further entrenching U.S. involvement in the region’s long-term security architecture.

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