Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed his country’s readiness to enter into a significant agreement with the United States concerning rare minerals. In a recent address to reporters in London, Zelenskyy stated, “We were ready to sign it, and honestly, I believe that the United States would be ready as well,” emphasising that both parties needed to agree for the deal to be finalised.
Zelenskyy’s visit to the UK coincided with an important summit involving European leaders as they strategised on the ongoing conflict with Russia. He noted that the existing agreement would only be signed when both sides are prepared to do so, underscoring the importance of mutual consent.
Although Zelenskyy was slated to sign the minerals deal during a trip to Washington the previous week, it did not occur due to tensions during a meeting with then-President Donald Trump, where accusations about Ukraine’s handling of military support were exchanged. Trump had portrayed the minerals agreement as a means for the U.S. to recoup financial aid given to Ukraine.
In light of these developments, Zelenskyy affirmed the strength of the US-Ukraine relationship, stating, “The relationship will continue.” He expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from various nations, emphasising the significance of bipartisan backing in the U.S. for Ukraine’s situation. He cautioned that halting U.S. assistance would only benefit Russia, reinforcing the notion that Ukraine and the U.S. share strategic interests.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer convened the summit in London, aiming to foster a unified European approach to the conflict, amid concerns about the negotiations being predominantly influenced by the U.S. Alongside Zelenskyy, European leaders discussed a ceasefire plan intended for presentation to the U.S., highlighting a collective intention to take control of the narrative around the conflict.
Additionally, Starmer announced a new defensive initiative for Ukraine, allowing the country to utilise £1.6 billion ($3.2 billion) in UK export finance to procure over 5,000 advanced air defence missiles, manufactured in Britain. Leaders agreed on the necessity of maintaining economic pressure on Russia and ensuring continued military support for Ukraine, aiming for a coordinated response as the situation in the region intensifies.
In summary, Zelenskyy’s statements reinforce Ukraine’s commitment to solidifying relations with the U.S. through strategic agreements, as well as the importance of sustained European unity and assistance in the face of escalating challenges posed by the ongoing war with Russia.