Zelensky and Kellogg Discuss Strategic Partnership for Ukraine’s Security and Economic Growth

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky engaged in discussions with U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine and Russia, Keith Kellogg, in Kyiv. The focal point of their dialogue was the potential for a bilateral agreement aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s security and attracting much-needed investment to its economy.

President Zelensky articulated Ukraine’s commitment to establishing a robust agreement with the United States, emphasizing the necessity of reliable security guarantees and favorable investment conditions. Of particular interest was the prospect of collaboration in the mineral extraction sector, leveraging Ukraine’s natural resources.

Previously, the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump proposed an agreement that would allocate 50% of mineral revenues to the American side, a condition that the Ukrainian leadership deemed unjust and detrimental to national interests. Zelensky reaffirmed Ukraine’s openness to mutually beneficial collaboration but firmly stated that the country would not compromise its sovereignty or relinquish control over its natural resources.

Following the meeting, a planned joint press conference featuring Zelensky and Kellogg was unexpectedly canceled at the request of the American delegation. The absence of official commentary regarding this decision has led to widespread speculation in the media about the underlying reasons.

Kellogg’s visit coincided with escalating tensions in the rhetoric exchanged between the leaders of the United States and Ukraine. Notably, President Trump had referred to Zelensky as a “dictator without elections,” a remark that sparked outrage in Ukraine and among its European allies. In defense, Zelensky clarified that the postponement of elections was necessitated by the ongoing military crisis, underscoring the need to concentrate efforts on countering external threats.