**US and Ukraine Lock Horns Over Natural Resources Deal**
The relationship between the US and Ukraine has been tense since negotiations began at the start of February. The US has reportedly put forth three proposals, but the Ukrainian side has turned down the first two for not including security agreements.
**What’s At Stake**
The agreement is about a deal that would give the US control over Ukraine’s natural resources, including oil and gas, in exchange for American aid. The US wants to invest in a “free, sovereign, and secure Ukraine” but has made no mention of military guarantees.
**Leaked Information**
Leaked drafts have shown that the US wants to create a “Reconstruction Investment Fund” that would require Ukraine to transfer 50% of future profits from its natural resources. The fund would be used for the long-term reconstruction and development of Ukraine, with the US having economic and governance rights in those investments.
**Ukrainian Leader Speaks Out**
President Volodymyr Zelensky has slammed the proposals, saying that they are “not ready” to protect Ukrainian interests. He pointed out that the US aid was less than $100 billion, but the proposed deal would require Ukraine to contribute $500 billion to the fund.
**Former PM Weighs In**
Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has backed the latest version of the proposal, saying it’s “better than it was”. However, he acknowledged that it doesn’t go far enough on security and encouraged Ukraine to sign the deal quickly.
**How Did It Come To This?**
Ukraine first presented its natural resources to Senator Lindsey Graham in September 2024, but delayed the deal until Trump‘s election. Now, Kyiv is at risk of giving up its natural resources for very little in return.