Negotiations Stalled: U.S. and Ukraine Reassess Economic Agreement
In a significant turn of events, more than a month after initial discussions between Washington and Kyiv regarding a substantial agreement for the United States to gain a major interest in Ukraine’s mineral, oil, and gas development projects, the two parties find themselves at an impasse once again. The latest proposal from Washington reiterates the extensive financial obligations outlined in the original draft agreement, which Ukraine previously rejected. Additionally, it introduces new demands that could impose severe financial strains on Ukraine for years to come.
Several Ukrainian lawmakers have expressed strong reservations, indicating that accepting such a deal is not feasible under the current circumstances. President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed reporters in Paris on Thursday, emphasizing that the new proposal necessitates a thorough examination and implying that a conclusive agreement remains distant. However, he also articulated a desire not to convey any negative sentiments towards the United States, stating, “We support cooperation with the U.S. We don’t want to send any signals that could lead the U.S. to stop aid to Ukraine.”
This statement from President Zelensky appears to be a strategic effort to maintain a positive relationship with the White House, particularly in light of his previous rejection of earlier proposals, which reportedly contributed to a temporary halt in U.S. aid to Ukraine.
What Echoes the Earlier Proposals?
The new proposal appears to revert to former President Trump’s initial demand that Ukraine reimburse the United States for the billions of dollars in military and financial assistance that Kyiv has received since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion three years ago. This information comes from three current and former Ukrainian officials who have reviewed the draft and spoke on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the negotiations.
