Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky publicly alleged on Wednesday that the United States requested half of Ukraine's natural resources without providing any security guarantees or assurances of continued support. "The document was vague, except for one thing—it clearly stated that we were to give up 50% of everything listed," Zelensky told reporters in Kyiv, referencing a draft from the White House.
The Ukrainian leader expressed his willingness to release Washington's proposal. "I don't think it will benefit our relations," he remarked, as reported by Ukraine's state news agency Ukrinform. According to EFE, the document was presented to Zelensky a week prior by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during his visit to Kyiv. Zelensky requested some time to provide a response.
Sources with knowledge of the document indicated that the United States asked Ukraine to share half of its rare earth elements and other natural resources. This proposal was made public by President Donald Trump shortly after he assumed office, suggesting it was a form of repayment for the aid the U.S. had extended to Kyiv, which Trump claimed could yield Washington a $500 billion benefit.
However, Zelensky contested those figures during his press conference on Wednesday. "We need to clarify those numbers. Unfortunately, they don't align with reality. The war has cost us $320 billion; $120 billion covered by Ukrainian taxpayers and $200 billion provided by the United States and the European Union, primarily in military aid," he stated.
President Zelensky detailed that the U.S. contribution amounted to $67 billion in military support and $31.5 billion in direct budget assistance to Ukraine.
Frequently Asked Questions about U.S. Request for Ukraine's Resources
What did Zelensky allege about the U.S. request?
Zelensky claimed that the U.S. requested half of Ukraine's natural resources without offering security guarantees or continued support.
How did the U.S. allegedly communicate their request?
The request was reportedly communicated in a document presented to Zelensky by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during a visit to Kyiv.
What was Zelensky's response to the alleged figures provided by Trump?
Zelensky disputed the figures, stating the cost of the war was $320 billion, with $200 billion in aid from the U.S. and EU, mainly for military support.