2025-04-18T08:04:26.000Z

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In a significant development for international relations, Luke Harding from The Guardian has reported from Kyiv that he has obtained a copy of a memorandum of intent. This memorandum is set to be signed next week between Ukraine and the United States regarding a pivotal minerals deal. The document outlines the establishment of a joint investment fund that aims to bolster collaboration between the two nations in the mining sector, which is particularly crucial given the ongoing geopolitical tensions.

The draft of the memorandum explicitly acknowledges the "significant financial and material support" that Washington has extended to Kyiv since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. This recognition is a critical aspect, as it underscores the depth of the U.S.'s commitment to supporting Ukraine during a time of severe crisis. However, the memorandum does not clarify whether any profits generated from future investments will be allocated towards repaying the extensive military aid provided by the Biden administration. Notably, former President Donald Trump has asserted that Ukraine "owes" the United States at least $300 billion, raising questions about the financial obligations of Ukraine in the context of its international partnerships.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has countered Trump's assertions by stating that the weapons deliveries from the U.S. were approved as a grant by Congress, rather than a loan, implying that they do not require repayment. He further indicated that Ukraine is prepared to cover the costs for any future military aid that may be offered under a potential Trump administration.

In parallel developments, senior diplomats from the United States, Europe, and Ukraine are slated to gather again in London next week, following a productive round of discussions held in Paris, as reported by the lyse Palace. A French official characterized the talks as "excellent" and expressed optimism about rejuvenating stalled ceasefire efforts. The meetings were attended by high-ranking officials from Britain, France, Germany, and Ukraine, in addition to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Trumps special envoy, Steve Witkoff.

The French official noted that the U.S. is open to discussing security guarantees for Ukraine, although the specifics of these guarantees will hinge on negotiations aimed at establishing a solid and lasting peace. President Emmanuel Macron of France, who hosted the recent talks, emphasized the desire for a robust and sustainable peace, remarking that the key issue remains how to phase the peace process effectively.

Keith Kellogg, Trumps envoy to Ukraine, described the discussions as "very productive," although he refrained from providing detailed insights into what was discussed. An unannounced delegation of Ukrainian officials, including Volodymyr Zelenskyy's chief of staff Andriy Yermak, as well as the country's foreign and defense ministers, also participated in the talks with U.S. and European representatives. Yermak highlighted that they exchanged perspectives on subsequent steps, including the implementation of a full ceasefire, the potential involvement of a multinational military contingent, and the development of an effective security framework for Ukraine.

As this diplomatic dialogue continues, the international community watches closely, hopeful for progress towards peace in a region that has been engulfed in conflict for far too long.