Amid ongoing discussions on ending the war in Ukraine, reports of a forthcoming mineral extraction agreement between the US and Ukraine have sparked speculation. However, the US State Department has made it clear: these are two entirely separate tracks.
Speaking on Fox Business, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce emphasized that the mineral deal has no connection to ceasefire negotiations.
“This is something separate. It’s not related to ceasefire talks and isn’t part of any agreement aimed at ending this catastrophe,” she stated.
Bruce also warned that the US has no intention of dragging out peace efforts for years and may withdraw from negotiations if both parties fail to show genuine commitment.
“We can’t have meetings about meetings. This can’t go on for months or years,” she added.
At the same time, she noted that European partners at a recent Paris meeting acknowledged the need for joint efforts to bring about a ceasefire.
Bruce also highlighted growing optimism about new economic cooperation between Washington and Kyiv, stressing a “great deal of enthusiasm” for ending the war.
Key points:
- The US says the mineral deal is unrelated to ceasefire discussions
- The US may pull out of peace talks if no constructive progress is seen
- EU and US seek joint action to end the war
- On April 18, a memorandum was signed as a step toward an economic partnership agreement
Despite speculation, the US-Ukraine mineral extraction deal is not a political bargaining chip in the context of the war. Washington is keeping economic cooperation and diplomatic negotiations on separate tracks — but it expects real progress toward peace in return.
