Zelensky Announces U.S. Proposal for Rare Earth Elements Agreement
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced receipt of a U.S. proposal for a rare earth elements agreement, emphasizing the examination of its terms. He recapitulated a recent agreement with the U.S. concerning a ceasefire in the Black Sea, stressing the need for monitoring mechanisms. Zelensky rejected Putin’s suggestion of a temporary administration in Kyiv, asserting it only aims to prolong conflict.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky disclosed that Ukraine has received a formal proposal from the United States pertaining to a rare earth elements agreement. This announcement occurred during a press conference held in Kyiv, where Zelensky confirmed that the draft agreement was officially presented today and would be scrutinized by relevant experts.
Zelensky indicated his willingness to endorse a version of the agreement that aligns with Ukraine’s interests. He assured, “If there is a risky situation for us, I will, of course, share it with our people without any reservations.” He made it clear that the agreement would not involve accruing debt, stating, “At least for now, we are talking about the past. If there is any possibility of new support packages, the United States is likely to impose certain conditions.”
Additionally, he highlighted discussions regarding an agreement with the United States made in Saudi Arabia, which aims to establish a ceasefire with Russia in the Black Sea and protect energy infrastructure. He underscored the necessity of a verification mechanism to uphold the ceasefire, emphasizing that success of the agreements is contingent on such measures.
The Ukrainian president noted that the United States is appraising this matter for the first time and mentioned that Washington is considering consulting Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and several European nations regarding their willingness to undertake monitoring duties. He also remarked that Saudi Arabia currently lacks the capabilities necessary to monitor the ceasefire effectively.
Zelensky pointed out that Turkey could be a suitable candidate for monitoring security in the Black Sea region given its strategic position. On a separate note, he responded to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s proposal for a “temporary administration” in Kyiv for negotiations, labeling it as a tactic to prolong the conflict. He described Putin’s approach as an obstruction to peace talks aimed at concluding the war.
This communication follows Russia’s ongoing military invasion of Ukraine, initiated on February 24, 2022. Ukraine perceives Russia’s demands to abandon aspirations of joining Western military alliances as an infringement upon its sovereignty.
In conclusion, President Zelensky’s announcement regarding the U.S. rare earth elements proposal marks a significant step in Ukraine’s efforts to secure strategic resources amidst ongoing tensions with Russia. The necessity for robust monitoring mechanisms for the ceasefire agreement has been highlighted, along with the importance of the United States in facilitating peace negotiations. Zelensky’s firm stance against debt obligations and rejection of Putin’s proposals underscores Ukraine’s determination to preserve its sovereignty and pursue favorable agreements.
Original Source: www.jordannews.jo
