Ukraine Signs Outline for US Minerals Deal [2025 Update]

In a move closely watched by global markets, Ukraine has just signed a memorandum outlining a strategic minerals deal with the US. The timing is key—Ukraine is pushing for recovery after years of war, and the US is searching for stable sources of critical raw materials used in high-tech manufacturing, energy, and defense.

This agreement isn’t only about selling resources. It’s a step to secure investment, strengthen Ukraine’s economy, and help drive post-war reconstruction. Ukraine holds reserves of minerals like lithium and titanium, which are in high demand worldwide but often controlled by unstable or adversarial regions.

The deal’s outline creates a framework for US participation in the development of Ukraine’s mineral assets, including plans for an investment fund dedicated to rebuilding infrastructure. For Kyiv, this is a pathway to bring in outside capital while retaining a stake in its own economic future. It also positions Ukraine as a key supplier to the West at a moment when global supply chains are shifting rapidly.

Key Elements of the Ukraine-US Minerals Deal

Ukraine’s outline for a minerals deal with the US has set the stage for a partnership built on recovery and resource development. This section breaks down the main parts of the agreement, including the formal signing, goals for growth, what’s covered, and how the new investment structure aims to benefit Ukraine’s future.

Memorandum of Intent and Strategic Goals

Photo by RDNE Stock project

Ukraine and the US formally signed a Memorandum of Intent. This document lays the foundation for a larger economic partnership. Its signing signals a clear commitment to move from intentions to lasting action.

The memorandum sets out direct goals:

• Reconstruction: Using mineral wealth to help rebuild Ukraine’s roads, bridges, and neighborhoods.
• Resource development: Modernizing mining operations, improving extraction processes, and increasing transparency.
• Long-term vision: Building a self-sustaining economic partnership, instead of a short-term aid package.

Officials from both countries highlight the agreement as a “first step” towards wider cooperation and access to Ukraine’s strategic reserves. It’s designed to “pave the way for an Economic Partnership,” as described in a recent CNBC article.

Scope of Resources and Revenue Sharing

This deal is not limited to just one or two resources. Instead, it covers a broad mix that positions Ukraine among global suppliers of raw materials crucial to tech and energy industries. According to Reuters, here are the key minerals in focus:

• Titanium
• Lithium
• Beryllium
• Uranium
• Oil
• Natural Gas

Ukraine remains the primary owner of these resources, even as US investment and expertise enter the mix. What sets this deal apart is its revenue-sharing model. At least 50% of profits from the extraction and processing of covered resources will be directed straight into a Ukrainian recovery fund. This approach aims to fuel rapid repair of infrastructure and public services instead of simply exporting profits.

Exclusions and Investment Structure

Not every part of Ukraine’s vast resource sector is included. The country’s main state energy firm, Naftogaz, is excluded from this agreement, which reflects a focus on private-sector opportunities. This carve-out keeps control of major energy sites in Ukrainian hands while opening the rest to much-needed foreign investment.

The investment strategy steers away from direct military or cash payments. Instead, the joint fund supports Ukraine’s civil recovery:

• Attracts private investors to rebuild physical infrastructure.
• Prioritizes technology upgrades and training for Ukrainian labor.
• Avoids complex military aid or sensitive financial gifts.

This structure stands out from the usual aid deals because it makes Ukraine an active partner, not just a beneficiary. For more on how this approach supports Ukrainian sovereignty while encouraging global involvement, see details in the Kyiv Independent.

Ukraine’s Mineral Reserves and Economic Potential

As Ukraine signs a landmark minerals deal with the US, the promise of its mineral wealth takes center stage. The country’s resources are among the most significant in Europe, not just for volume but for strategic importance to industries worldwide. These deposits hold the power to transform Ukraine’s economy and fuel long-term partnerships far beyond its borders.

Breakdown of Ukraine’s Critical Minerals

Photo by Maksim Romashkin

Ukraine’s mineral reserves place it among the top resource-rich nations globally, with a total estimated value near $15 trillion, according to Visual Capitalist. Some of the most notable reserves include:

• Titanium: Ukraine possesses about 7% of Europe's titanium supplies—a light, strong metal essential in building airplanes, satellites, and even medical implants. With rising global demand, titanium’s use spans from the aerospace sector to energy production.
• Lithium: The country’s lithium reserves have become highly sought after as core ingredients in batteries for electric vehicles, smartphones, and renewable energy storage. This positions Ukraine to become a key supplier for the fast-growing battery market, as reported by the World Economic Forum.
• Beryllium: Ukraine’s reserves of beryllium support advanced technology and defense. This lightweight metal is used in aerospace applications, X-ray equipment, and nuclear reactors due to its ability to withstand extreme conditions.
• Uranium: Substantial uranium deposits allow Ukraine to support domestic nuclear energy needs and contribute to Europe’s shift toward non-fossil fuel power. Its uranium is also valuable for reactor fuel and, with proper oversight, global nuclear supply chains, as covered by the BBC.

Each of these minerals underpins technologies that touch our daily lives and shape modern industries—making their secure supply a top strategic concern for both Ukraine and its partners.

Challenges Facing Resource Development

Realizing the full economic potential of Ukraine’s mineral reserves is complex. A range of obstacles threatens progress and return on investment, especially after years of conflict.

• Geological Data Gaps: Many surveys are out of date. Modern investors need detailed and current geological mapping to make informed decisions. Without this, risk increases and delays multiply, holding back serious projects.
• War-Related Damage: Fighting has compromised both surface and underground assets. Mines, railways, and export terminals have suffered major damages, requiring heavy upfront investment for repair and safety.
• Infrastructure Shortfalls: Reliable roads, electricity, and processing facilities are essential for large-scale extraction. The war and years of underinvestment have left these in a poor state, slowing down both mining and export operations.
• Investment Hesitancy: These factors add up to increased risk for global firms. Even with lucrative deposits, investors may hesitate to commit significant capital until they see progress in stability and infrastructure.

Current estimates suggest that fixing these challenges is crucial not only for attracting partners like the US, but also for scaling up extraction and realizing revenue that powers Ukraine’s recovery. According to a summary by Dentons, strategic reforms and targeted investment in data and infrastructure will be key to unlocking the long-promised economic boost from Ukraine’s mineral endowment.