During the "Ukraine. Year 2025." forum in Kyiv on February 23, President Volodymyr Zelensky responded firmly to the U.S. proposal for a $500 billion fund financed by Ukrainian natural resource revenues. He emphasized that U.S. aid should not be viewed as debt, highlighting that it consists of grants.
The U.S. is currently negotiating terms that would secure significant interests in Ukraine's natural resources, including critical minerals and energy supplies, to offset American financial support. Zelensky dismissed the proposed amount, arguing it far exceeds the $100 billion the U.S. has provided under former President Biden's administration.
He insisted that any agreement must include security guarantees, which have yet to be established. "I will not sign an arrangement that burdens future generations of Ukrainians," he stated, expressing a desire for continued dialogue with U.S. leadership.
Zelensky criticized the proposal's stipulation that Ukraine repay aid at a 1:2 ratio, effectively doubling the financial burden. While specific details of the agreement remain undisclosed, pressure from the Trump administration to finalize a deal is increasing. Ukraine's parliament speaker, Ruslan Stefanchuk, indicated that discussions are set to begin today.