Ukraine seeks changes to U.S. economic agreement over resources
Ukraine will request modifications to the economic agreement previously proposed by the U.S. President Donald Trump, Bloomberg reported on Saturday, March 29, citing sources close to the discussions.
According to journalists, Kyiv wants the agreement to include a clause aimed at increasing American investments, DW reports.
Additionally, Bloomberg's report indicates that the draft agreement includes provisions granting Washington control over all major investments in Ukraine’s infrastructure and mineral resources, with no time limit. This provision raises concerns in Kyiv, as it could undermine Ukraine's EU accession process and may require the country to repay all U.S. military and economic aid provided since the war began.
"If this partnership is accepted, the United States will gain effective control over investment decisions concerning a large part of Ukraine's economy, including the mining, oil, and gas industries, extraction of essential mineral resources, and key infrastructure like ports, roads, and railways," Bloomberg writes.
Moreover, Ukrainian officials have voiced concerns about the proposed document during discussions with the U.S. side. U.S. representatives have not dismissed Ukraine's objections, especially those concerning the potential EU accession.
"This suggests that Washington might be open to discussing possible changes," Bloomberg reports, citing an anonymous source.
The U.S. seeks control over all mineral resources
On Thursday, March 27, both the Financial Times and Bloomberg reported that in the new version of the U.S.-Ukraine mineral resources agreement, sent to Kyiv on March 23, Washington is making far more aggressive demands regarding control over Ukraine's natural resources and energy assets.
The agreement is expected to cover all of Ukraine's mineral resources, including oil, natural gas, and key energy assets throughout the country. Additionally, the agreement covers infrastructure tied to the exploitation of natural resources, including roads, railways, pipelines, ports, and refineries, according to FT.
Furthermore, Ukraine would be required to transfer 50% of the revenue from new infrastructure projects and resource exploitation into a shared fund.
According to cited sources, U.S. financial contributions following the Russian invasion in 2022 will be regarded as a "contribution to the partnership." This point is also mentioned in the March 29 Bloomberg article.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
