**US and Ukraine to Sign Agreement on Critical Minerals**
The United States is set to sign an agreement with Ukraine on access to critical minerals and natural resources. US President Donald Trump made the announcement on March 20.
The deal was previously planned for February 28, but it was delayed after a heated clash between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. However, Trump said that the deal is now back on track.
**US to Increase Domestic Mineral Production**
As part of the agreement, the US will also increase its domestic production of critical minerals. Trump signed an executive order invoking emergency powers under the Defense Production Act (DPA) to ramp up mineral production in the country.
This suggests that the US relies heavily on mineral imports, which constitutes a national security threat. The order aims to expand and accelerate efforts to mine and process minerals, including coal.
**Ukraine to Contribute 50% of Mineral Proceeds**
The agreement with Ukraine would establish a fund to monetize state-owned mineral resources, including oil, gas, and logistics infrastructure. Ukraine will contribute 50% of the proceeds from the future monetization of these resources.
**Security Concerns Remain Unaddressed**
However, the deal does not provide concrete security guarantees, which was one of Ukraine’s main concerns. The final agreement only includes a line that says the fund “will be reinvested at least annually in Ukraine to promote the safety, security and prosperity of Ukraine.”
**US and Ukrainian Officials to Meet Again**
The US and Ukrainian officials are set to hold another round of talks on March 24 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This meeting comes after Trump held separate calls with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Zelensky earlier this week.
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