Ukraine and the United States have achieved significant progress regarding the agreement on mineral development and extraction; however, the final process has not yet been completed
This was reported by Ukrainian Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko in a statement for the leading international news agency Reuters. According to him, the so-called "progress" indicates that active negotiations are ongoing between the parties, and they are now near the final stage of resolving key issues. The minister emphasized that Ukraine and the U.S. are fully aware of the importance of this matter and are making every effort to sign the document as soon as possible. He added that Ukrainian diplomatic and government circles are working diligently to reach an agreement within the shortest possible timeframe. At the same time, Marchenko did not specify exact dates or deadlines for completing the negotiations, only noting that the process is ongoing and efforts are focused on securing the agreement swiftly. In his direct quote, he stated: "Progress has been made, and now our teams are working very closely. There are still a few issues we are discussing, but work is proceeding actively." It is important to highlight that this positive development comes amid previous efforts by the parties — Ukraine and the U.S. have already signed a memorandum indicating their initial intent to conclude an agreement that would be beneficial for both nations and foster joint economic interests. Recall that this document has become a key prerequisite for further negotiations. Both countries aim to attract American investments into resource development and create transparent, mutually beneficial conditions for mineral extraction in Ukraine. This, among other things, is intended to promote the adoption of new technologies, enhance environmental standards, and ensure social responsibility among extraction companies. Discussions are ongoing in the context of balancing the interests of the state, business, and the public. The Finance Minister emphasized that Ukraine strives to reach an agreement that will not only open new prospects for the Ukrainian economy but also adhere to international standards and resource security. It is anticipated that, based on the current negotiations, Ukraine might finalize and sign the much-anticipated agreement by the end of this year or early next year. Overall, the process of concluding the mineral agreement between Ukraine and the U.S. is in an active phase. Both sides demonstrate a strategy of constructive dialogue and a desire to find a compromise that will lay the foundation for future investment projects and the development of Ukraine's resource sector. Time will tell when this crucial document will enter into legal force and what its economic and social impacts will be for both countries.