Ukraine’s Natural Resources Deal Falls Apart
An agreement on Ukraine’s natural resources broke down after a heated argument between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office. The deal, which was meant to be a first step in jointly developing Ukraine’s resources, collapsed when Trump and his Vice President JD Vance berated Zelensky.
The agreement had been years in the making, with Kyiv and Washington negotiating over security guarantees for Ukraine. However, the final document did not include any such guarantees, leaving many Ukrainians feeling let down.
Businesses in Ukraine are now calling on the US to re-engaging with them and to sign the resources agreement. They believe that American investment would be a major boost for the country’s economy.
“We need to get the US back on track,” said Andrey Stavnitser, co-owner and CEO of TIS Port and founder of Superhumans Center. “Ukraine considers the United States a crucial ally, and we are deeply grateful to the American people and authorities at all levels for the immense support they have provided us over the years.”
The collapse of the deal has left many Ukrainians feeling uncertain about their country’s future.
“The discussion (on Feb 28) immediately went in a direction that does not suggest any positive steps moving forward,” said Igor Liski, owner of the EFI Group. “Nevertheless, Ukraine is still ready to sign the agreement — peace is what we need the most.”
The business community is urging the US and European leaders to work together to establish a strong and fair peace in Ukraine.
“We need to undertake enormous efforts to get the US back on track,” said Andrey Stavnitser. “We should send a joint letter to the US administration clearly defining the red lines that Ukraine will never accept.”
Businesses in Ukraine are now waiting for a new opportunity to work with the US and to develop their country’s resources.
“We believe that a reasonable second round should be prepared,” said Igor Liski. “From the business point of view, I believe that US Investment will help to develop the country like it did previously with South Korea, Japan, and Singapore.”