Ukraine, US finalize minerals deal, signal to Russia

The United States and Ukraine have signed a comprehensive economic partnership granting the U.S. preferential access to Ukrainian minerals, including rare earths, alongside investments in Ukraine's reconstruction. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described the agreement as a full economic partnership expanding beyond minerals to infrastructure and energy, aiming to align American and Ukrainian interests and strengthen President Trump's negotiating position with Russia. The deal establishes a joint investment fund to attract global investment and support Ukraine's recovery amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. Ukrainian officials, including Economy Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, traveled to Washington to finalize the agreement after months of challenging negotiations and a last-minute snag that nearly delayed the signing. Kyiv expects the partnership to bolster U.S. support as it seeks a peace settlement with Russia. The accord is seen as a significant move to signal unity and shared goals between the U.S. and Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.