Zelensky Announces Receipt of U.S. Proposal for Rare Earth Elements Agreement
Ukrainian President Zelensky confirmed the receipt of a rare earth elements agreement proposal from the U.S., stating that it will be reviewed by experts. He stressed that Ukraine will not accept debt and condemned Putin’s proposals as delaying tactics. Zelensky also discussed recent agreements for a ceasefire with the U.S., highlighting the necessity for monitoring mechanisms.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has formally acknowledged receiving a proposal from the United States concerning a rare earth elements agreement. During a press conference held in Kyiv, he revealed that the draft from the U.S. has been officially delivered and will be analyzed by relevant experts in Ukraine.
Zelensky expressed his intent to approve a version of the agreement that safeguards Ukrainian interests. He emphasized, “If there is a risky situation for us, I will, of course, share it with our people without any reservations.” Additionally, he clarified that the agreement would not result in Ukraine accepting any debt, stating, “At least for now, we are talking about the past.”
The President also addressed a recent agreement made with the United States in Saudi Arabia, which aims to facilitate a ceasefire with Russia in the Black Sea region and safeguard energy infrastructure. He highlighted the essential need for a monitoring mechanism to ensure compliance with the ceasefire, noting the role of other nations in this process.
Zelensky shared that, in discussions, the U.S. planned to consult with Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and select European nations regarding readiness to undertake monitoring operations. He remarked that Saudi Arabia lacks the capabilities to monitor energy infrastructure effectively, suggesting that Turkey would be a suitable candidate for ensuring security in the Black Sea.
In response to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s suggestion of a “temporary administration” in Kyiv for negotiations, Zelensky asserted that such proposals serve only to prolong the conflict, labeling them as an obstruction to the negotiation process and the cessation of hostilities. Since the onset of the military invasion by Russia on February 24, 2022, Ukraine has resisted demands to forsake its affiliations with Western military coalitions, viewing them as unwarranted interference in its sovereign matters.
In summary, President Zelensky announced a significant proposal from the United States regarding a rare earth elements agreement. He assured that Ukraine would not enter into debt under this agreement. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of establishing a monitoring mechanism for a ceasefire with Russia while dismissing Putin’s negotiation proposal as a mere tactic to delay peace efforts. These developments reflect Ukraine’s ongoing struggle and strategic partnerships amidst the conflict with Russia.
Original Source: www.jordannews.jo
