Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal expressed the opinion that the new format of military assistance from the United States could become an important part of a broader financial scheme — the creation of an investment fund that would coordinate the use of Ukraine’s natural resources while simultaneously strengthening the country’s position on the international stage
The head of government stated this during a telethon broadcast on April 30, providing a detailed comment on the upcoming agreements with Washington. According to Shmyhal, the agreement between the U.S. and Ukraine envisions the creation of an investment fund with equal contributions — 50% from each side, with the possibility of including not only monetary resources but also aid in the form of new military supplies under certain conditions. The significance of such a scheme lies in the fact that the U.S. can use part of its new military support as a contribution to this fund, opening new opportunities for Ukrainian-American cooperation. The Ukrainian government leader emphasized: “We are signing an agreement to create a joint fund in which Ukraine is expected to contribute through license payments and rent charges for subsoil resources. At the same time, the American side has the possibility to account for new military assistance deliveries as part of our contribution. This allows us not only to fund the fund but also to facilitate bilateral cooperation in the areas of security and economics.” An important detail of the agreement is the recognition of Ukraine’s contribution to the global security system. According to the deal, the United States recognizes Ukraine’s role in the global security architecture, particularly emphasizing the significance of the Budapest Memorandum. At the same time, Ukraine will retain control over all its resources and infrastructure. This means that the country’s natural wealth and infrastructure objects remain under Ukrainian sovereignty and will not be transferred into ownership or management of the fund. The Prime Minister stressed: “Our contribution consists of license payments and mineral rent for subsoil resources. We plan to direct 50% of these revenues to the newly established fund. It is also important to note that additional aid Ukraine will receive in the future — including military support provided after the signing of the agreement — may also be counted as part of our contribution, creating additional opportunities for mutual cooperation.” Overall, this initiative has the potential to strengthen the strategic partnership between Ukraine and the U.S., creating additional mechanisms for developing the national infrastructure, ensuring economic and energy independence, and bolstering the country’s defense capabilities. At the same time, it highlights the important role Ukraine plays as an equal participant in the global security system, capable of formulating its own interests and participating in global financial and investment schemes.