Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly rejected the idea that any potential deal over Ukraine’s mineral resources should be seen as “backpay” for the massive foreign aid the United States has provided during the ongoing war with Russia. The idea was raised after Donald Trump suggested that the U.S. should have access to Ukraine’s critical minerals in exchange for the $350 billion worth of assistance he claims America has extended to Ukraine.

Zelensky, however, made it clear in his recent comments that he does not recognize the aid as a debt that Ukraine must repay. “We agreed with Biden that this was a grant. A grant is not a debt,” he told reporters, distancing himself from Trump’s suggestion that Ukraine owed the U.S. money or resources in return for the support.

The U.S. Congress has approved around $183 billion in aid to Ukraine during the Biden administration, with Zelensky confirming that approximately $70 billion of that amount has gone toward military aid. He also clarified that an additional $6 billion has been allocated for humanitarian relief and the rebuilding of Ukraine’s infrastructure. However, Zelensky pointed out that not all of the financial aid approved by Congress has reached Ukraine, further fueling questions about the missing funds.

Zelensky Demands Stronger Security Guarantees

Although Zelensky is open to exploring trade deals concerning Ukraine’s abundant mineral resources, he emphasized the need for stronger assurances from the United States, especially when it comes to security. With the ongoing threat of Russian aggression, Zelensky is seeking a written guarantee that U.S. investments in Ukraine’s mineral sectors would be protected in the event of further Russian military actions.

The Ukrainian president is looking for commitments that U.S. assets within Ukraine would be defended against Russian advances. “The United States has assured me that their investment would guarantee security because the Russians will not go near where the minerals are if they are U.S. business,” Zelensky explained. However, he expressed concerns about the long-term viability of such protection, particularly if Russia were to escalate its military efforts.

Zelensky also made it clear that he would not accept any agreement that would compromise Ukraine’s sovereignty or security, including any ceasefire or peace agreement with Russia that would not be in Ukraine’s best interest. His caution comes as U.S. officials have hinted that Trump could secure a ceasefire agreement within the week, but Zelensky remains wary of Russia’s intentions and distrusts the Kremlin’s commitments to peace.

The Stakes for Ukraine and its Future Relations with the U.S.

While Zelensky is interested in working out a trade agreement involving Ukraine’s minerals, the president’s priority is to ensure that any deal does not come at the cost of Ukraine’s future security. Zelensky’s focus is on securing lasting peace and stability for Ukraine, and he insists that no deal—whether involving minerals or other resources—should endanger the country’s long-term interests.

“There is no disrespect for President Trump,” Zelensky said. “But he is not going to be here forever. And we need peace for many, many years.” The Ukrainian leader is adamant about ensuring that any trade agreements or security assurances made are fair and serve the lasting needs of Ukraine, not just a short-term solution to the ongoing conflict.

Zelensky’s stance reflects the delicate balance Ukraine must maintain as it navigates complex negotiations with both Western powers and Russia. While seeking financial and military support, Ukraine’s leadership remains vigilant in ensuring its sovereignty and security are never compromised in the pursuit of foreign aid or trade agreements.

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