Seven Key Takeaways from the Landmark US-Ukraine Resources Agreement
In a move that could reshape Ukraine’s path to recovery and global alliances, the United States and Ukraine have officially signed a strategic agreement granting Washington access to Ukraine’s valuable natural resources. This deal, which has been months in the making, establishes a new investment fund aimed at attracting US financial and technological involvement in Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction—while also ensuring American returns.
Signed amid the ongoing war with Russia, the agreement is seen as both an economic and geopolitical statement. As Ukraine approaches the third year of resisting Russian aggression, it hopes the deal will not only bring in capital but also ensure a deeper long-term commitment from the US. Here’s an in-depth look at the seven most important takeaways from this agreement:
1. No Ukrainian Payback to the US
Despite former President Donald Trump’s past insistence that Ukraine should repay the $350 billion in US aid provided during the war, the newly signed agreement imposes no such obligation. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal has clarified that the terms of the deal do not include any mention of a debt repayment or reimbursement, signaling a major concession from Washington.
Trump, however, has tried to frame the agreement as a “win” for the United States, stating that America will get back “much more in theory” than what it provided under President Biden’s administration.
2. Tougher Tone from the US Towards Putin
The announcement of the deal was accompanied by unusually stern language directed at Russia—especially notable coming from an administration that has generally taken a less confrontational tone. A statement from the US Treasury described the Ukraine invasion as “Russia’s full-scale invasion” and explicitly declared that any individual or nation involved in funding or supplying Russia’s war machine will not benefit from the reconstruction of Ukraine.
This shift will be welcomed in Kyiv, where there has been increasing pressure on allies to take a stronger stance against Moscow, particularly as ceasefire discussions continue between Russia and the West.
3. Oil and Gas Included Alongside Minerals
While much of the media focus has been on Ukraine’s rich mineral reserves, the agreement also covers oil and gas projects and related infrastructure development. Under the deal, the resources will remain under Ukrainian ownership, but the US will gain joint access for exploration and development.
This provision was not included in earlier drafts and suggests a softening of Ukraine’s initial stance—potentially aimed at broadening US investor interest.
4. No Hindrance to Kyiv’s EU Ambitions
Concerns were raised that granting preferential treatment to US investors might interfere with Ukraine’s ongoing EU accession talks, particularly given its existing strategic partnership with the European Union on raw materials. However, the agreement text explicitly acknowledges Ukraine’s EU aspirations and emphasizes that the deal will not conflict with any future EU obligations.
Importantly, it includes a clause stating that if Ukraine needs to renegotiate parts of the agreement due to obligations arising from EU membership, the US has agreed to “negotiate in good faith.” Furthermore, the deal commits the US to supporting increased technology and investment transfers from the EU and other global partners into Ukraine.
5. A US Military Commitment Back on the Table…
Though the agreement is largely economic, it appears to open the door for renewed US military assistance. Ukrainian First Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, who traveled to Washington to sign the deal, stated that future American aid could include advanced systems such as air defense weapons.
This development may mark a shift in policy for Trump, who has previously advocated for scaling back military aid to Ukraine. Whether this commitment translates into concrete security support remains to be seen, but it signals a potential recalibration of US strategy in the region.
6. But the US Can Still Walk Away at Any Time
Despite the cooperative language, the agreement does not include formal security guarantees for Ukraine. Unlike the more binding military commitments made under the Biden administration, this deal maintains flexibility for the US, especially regarding long-term military involvement.
While the economic framework may encourage continued support, the lack of explicit security obligations means Ukraine remains exposed to sudden shifts in American policy. The fragility of this partnership, particularly under a potential second Trump presidency, cannot be ignored.
7. Profits to Be Reinvested in Ukraine for 10 Years
One of the most promising provisions—at least from Ukraine’s perspective—is the commitment to reinvest all profits from the reconstruction investment fund back into Ukraine for the first 10 years. These funds would be directed toward rebuilding infrastructure, launching new development projects, and stimulating the national economy.
However, this clause reportedly does not appear in the publicly signed version of the agreement and might instead be part of a future “technical deal.” After this initial decade, profits may then be shared between the US and Ukrainian partners.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told Fox News that the deal is a strong message to Americans: “We have a chance to participate, to get compensation for the funding and weapons we’ve provided, and to be real partners in the success of the Ukrainian people.”
