Ukraine expects the mineral deal with the US to be fully operational within a few weeks and that it will help to ensure national security.

Through this agreement, Ukraine has finally become not just a recipient of support but a full-fledged US partner, noted the head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, Andriy Yermak, adding that the agreement may be put into practice “in the coming weeks.” According to him, this agreement and partnership with the US is also one of the elements of the future guarantees structure.

“After all, American money and investments are a very serious element of a security guarantee,” Yermak added.

In turn, the US State Department emphasized that the mineral deal provides for an economic partnership between Ukraine and the US, which “will last for generations,” and will also strengthen Ukraine’s national security. However, the agreement is not related to negotiations to end the war.

“This is a separate dynamic. This is something that should continue and provide money in the future for the reconstruction of Ukraine. But when it comes to national security, being a friend of the US is something that will make your country more secure and open a future for people,” said US State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce.