Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy declared on Friday that his country will not recognise previously approved US military aid as loans requiring repayment. The statement came as Kyiv confirmed receiving a new draft proposal from Washington on a potential minerals deal.
Speaking at a press conference, Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine’s stance, saying, “We do not see this assistance as a debt that must be repaid.” He also revealed that Ukraine is open to negotiations with any Russian representatives—except President Vladimir Putin.
New US Minerals Deal Proposal
Zelenskyy confirmed the receipt of a fresh US proposal, stating, “Officially, and this is important, the Ukrainian side—namely the Cabinet of Ministers and my office—today received the US proposals by note.”
The development follows a failed minerals agreement last month after a public clash between Zelenskyy and former US President Donald Trump.
No Compromise on EU Integration
The Ukrainian leader further asserted that Kyiv would reject any deal jeopardizing its path toward European Union membership. “We will not accept agreements that threaten our European integration,” he said