U.S.-Ukraine minerals deal does not include security guarantees – Presidential Office

Ihor Brudylo, Deputy Head of Ukraine's Presidential Office, stated this on Ukrainian television, Ukrinform reports.

"Ukraine received [the minerals agreement] through diplomatic channels. Currently, internal state procedures for approving this document are underway, as it differs from the version that was previously on the table," Brusylо said.

He noted that the new document is no longer just a framework agreement and has expanded in scope. Given this, the Ukrainian side seeks input from all relevant executive bodies, ministries, and agencies before finalizing it.

"This process is quite complex, will take time, and requires a thorough legal and political review," he said.

Brusylо said the agreement must align with Ukraine's national interests, comply with the Constitution and laws, and, most importantly, not hinder the country's path to the European Union.

"That's why the work on it will take some time," he added.

He stressed that the agreement does not include any security guarantees from the U.S.

"This agreement is considered more of an economic or financial document," Brusylо concluded.

Earlier reports said that Ukraine and the U.S. had planned to sign a bilateral agreement on February 28, outlining the rules and conditions for a Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund. This was to be a framework document, with both sides committed to working toward a full agreement on the creation of the Reconstruction Investment Fund, which would later require ratification by the Verkhovna Rada.

Photo: SBU