Mining Regions of Ukraine Urge Trump: Avoid Exploitation of Our Resources
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The dispute between Kyiv and Washington over Ukraine's mineral resources has intensified, with Donald Trump pressuring Ukraine to part ways with a piece of the pie. As the U.S. president threatens to halt military aid, the Ukrainian people voiced their concerns about being taken advantage of.
The U.S.-Ukraine agreement, concerning Ukraine's valuable mineral resources, is a touchy subject for Ukraine, which boasts a rich history of mining and hopes to tap into rare earth minerals. These resources play a vital role in the state's budget.
In the industrial city of Kryvyi Rih, Oleksandr, a 71-year-old pensioner, isn't very fond of Trump. "That ginger guy can't be trusted - he's all take, never give," he remarked while shopping near the UGOK iron ore mining and processing plant.
Following recent negotiations, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that the deal to create a mineral revenue fund has progressed. He emphasized that the revised document has become more equitable, potentially benefiting both the peoples of Ukraine and the U.S.
Zelenskyy is well aware that winning Trump's favor is crucial, but any misstep could spark outrage among Ukrainians. The people of Kryvyi Rih aren't shy about expressing their displeasure.
Just 60 km north of Kryvyi Rih lies the town of Zhovti Vody, where uranium and iron ore have been mined for years. Nina Fesenko, a 71-year-old resident, voiced her hopes that those involved in the deal consider Ukraine's welfare. "Our mineral riches belong to the people," she said.
Olga Marynska, 68, echoed similar sentiments, expressing concerns that Ukraine might be exploited. "We don't have to give everything," she said. "I don't think we have to empty out that fund for their benefit."
Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal clarified that the agreement now acknowledges that the deal would not seek to compensate for past U.S. aid provided to Kyiv. This reassurance seems aimed at Ukrainians who have stood their ground against Russia since 2022 and fought not just for themselves, but also for the West.
Ukrainian legislator Inna Sovsun expressed concerns about the deal, stating, "It feels like another country is exploiting our vulnerability, which wasn't our doing." She also highlighted the importance of considering the future generations who will live in Ukraine.
The U.S.-Ukraine mineral resources deal, first signed on April 30–May 1, 2025, represents a shift from military aid to economic collaboration, as emphasized by the Trump administration. This pact marks a significant step in relations between the two countries, but it remains to be seen if it will be seen as fair by the Ukrainian public.
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- The dispute over Ukraine's mineral resources, particularly uranium and rare earth minerals, has heightened tensions between Kyiv and Washington, with President Trump demanding a share of the profits.
- Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has confirmed that the deal to create a mineral revenue fund has progressed, aiming for a more equitable arrangement that benefits both Ukraine and the U.S.
- General-news reports suggest that Ukrainian legislator Inna Sovsun voices concerns over the deal, stating that it might be exploiting Ukraine's vulnerability and not considering the welfare of future generations.
- The U.S.-Ukraine mineral resources agreement, signed in 2025, signals a move from military aid to economic collaboration, but its fairness toward the Ukrainian people remains uncertain amidst ongoing discussions in politics and finance.
