Ukraine has moved to reassure the European Union that its ongoing negotiations with the United States over a minerals partnership will not jeopardize its bid for EU membership, drawing clear lines to preserve its European aspirations.
During a visit to Brussels, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal clarified that any agreement with the U.S. regarding critical minerals must be based on equal footing and must respect Ukraine’s constitutional and European integration priorities. “It should be a partnership agreement, so on equal conditions for both sides,” Shmyhal stated.
The move follows concerns raised by leaked drafts of the U.S.-Ukraine minerals deal, which reportedly includes far-reaching terms that could give Washington significant influence over Ukraine’s infrastructure and resource sectors. Reports suggest the agreement could grant the U.S. a “right of first offer” on major projects involving roads, ports, energy, and mining. Additionally, a joint investment fund proposed in the deal would be managed by a five-member board — with three of the seats filled by U.S. appointees — effectively giving the U.S. veto power over future developments.
Further terms would oblige Ukraine to present all major infrastructure and extraction projects to the board before approaching other potential partners, and profits from the fund would go to the U.S. until American aid to Ukraine is repaid — estimated at €114 billion since the onset of the war.
These provisions have drawn criticism for potentially violating EU rules on public procurement, competition, and transparency — key criteria for accession — and raised fears about excessive foreign influence that could hinder Ukraine’s European integration.
Shmyhal addressed these concerns directly during a press conference after the EU-Ukraine Association Council meeting, outlining what he called Ukraine’s “red lines.”
“These include our Constitution, our European aspirations, and international law,” he emphasized. “We are optimistic we can shape this into a genuine partnership.”
He added that a dedicated team of Ukrainian experts, backed by international legal advisors, is handling the technical negotiations, which are set to resume in the U.S. over the coming days. The discussions will center around the structure and conditions of the proposed investment fund.
Standing alongside Shmyhal, European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos expressed confidence in Ukraine’s commitment to the EU path. “We received clear assurances that Ukraine will remain aligned with its European ambitions,” she said, adding that Brussels supports any international agreement that ultimately benefits Ukraine without undermining its accession goals.
Kos noted that the EU aims to begin opening the six negotiation clusters required for Ukraine’s EU membership by the end of the year. However, she acknowledged that unanimity among all 27 member states is needed, with Hungary remaining a consistent obstacle. Budapest has even initiated a national consultation to gauge public sentiment on Ukraine’s EU bid, often citing concerns about minority rights.
“We are engaging with the Hungarian government and hope all parties will show good faith,” Kos stated, warning that despite progress, enlargement is still subject to political dynamics within the EU.
Shmyhal, for his part, said Ukraine will continue to implement the necessary reforms, particularly regarding national minorities, to meet the expectations of all member states. “We count on clear and fair decisions from the EU,” he added.
As negotiations with the U.S. move forward, Ukraine is aiming to balance strategic partnerships with its overarching goal of joining the European Union — a path Shmyhal says remains unwavering.
