Ukraine has reassured the European Union that its negotiations with the United States over a minerals deal will not impact its membership bid. The draft agreement leaked to the press includes terms that give the US unprecedented control over Ukraine’s natural resources through a joint investment fund. If enforced, these provisions would make it challenging for Ukraine to meet the EU’s criteria for membership. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal emphasized that the country’s European aspirations and obligations are red lines that cannot be crossed in any commercial deal.
The proposed agreement with the US has raised concerns of exploitation and neo-colonialism, particularly due to a “payback” model that would allow the US to recoup military and financial aid provided to Ukraine. The partnership terms would give the US significant influence over key decisions related to projects involving critical minerals, infrastructure, and natural resources in Ukraine. Shmyhal stated that Ukraine’s Constitution, European aspirations, and international obligations are non-negotiable, indicating that EU membership remains the country’s top priority.
Ukraine has assembled a special delegation of experts and international lawyers to lead the technical negotiations with the US on the joint investment fund. The talks are expected to focus on finding a compromise to make the agreement more balanced and respectful of Ukraine’s sovereignty. European Commission for Enlargement, Marta Kos, expressed support for any deal that is in Ukraine’s best interests and highlighted the importance of the country’s European path. The EU continues to stand by Ukraine in its pursuit of EU candidacy and eventual accession to the bloc.
The enlargement process is viewed as a security guarantee for Ukraine, and EU officials are committed to discussing all developments with the US within the framework of Ukraine’s accession process. Opening the six clusters of Ukraine’s accession by the end of the year is a shared goal between Brussels and Kyiv, but unanimity among all 27 member states is required for each step. Hungary has expressed opposition to Ukraine’s accession, raising concerns about the protection of national minorities. The European Commission expects all parties to show willingness to reach a compromise and move the process forward.
Shmyhal affirmed Ukraine’s commitment to implementing needed reforms and steps, including those related to the protection of national minorities, to align with EU standards. The government expects clear decisions from the EU and its member states in support of Ukraine’s European aspirations. While challenges remain, including Hungary’s opposition, progress continues towards Ukraine’s eventual EU membership. The EU stands ready to support Ukraine in its journey towards closer integration and eventual accession to the bloc.
