US-Ukraine minerals deal could be blueprint for future partnerships, says Atlantic Council’s Shelby Magid

The new critical minerals deal between the United States and Ukraine could become a blueprint for future US partnerships with other countries, according to Shelby Magid, Deputy Director of the Atlantic Council’s Eurasia Center.Speaking about the agreement, which gives the US access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals in return for future military aid, Magid said, “I hear that others are being considered, and I think it’s something other countries should be looking at… Engage smartly and carefully, and hopefully end up with something mutually beneficial.”
The deal, signed shortly after a Vatican meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, signals a renewed phase in the US-Ukraine relationship. It comes months after tensions between the two leaders and marks a shift in US posture towards a more forward-looking partnership, Magid noted.
While the agreement doesn’t bring immediate supply of minerals, it sets the foundation for long-term cooperation. “It’s immediately useful to put ourselves in a strategic position by laying the groundwork through these foundations and agreements,” Magid said. The move is also seen as a clear attempt to reduce US dependence on Chinese supply chains, especially in light of Beijing’s export restrictions on rare earth materials.Economically, the deal gives the US more leverage in its broader approach toward Russia. “There’s legislation being considered in the Senate, with at least 72 bipartisan senators looking to put more economic pressure on Russia,” Magid pointed out. Although no formal security guarantees are included, the agreement does take a tougher line on Moscow, describing its invasion as “full-scale” and barring Russian-affiliated entities from Ukraine’s reconstruction.

Addressing earlier concerns about unfair terms, Magid said Ukraine had successfully pushed for a more balanced arrangement. “The word ‘colonial’ had been thrown around before… but we’ve now moved forward. Ukraine maintains control over its own resources,” she emphasised. The new structure ensures that 50% of revenues from mineral projects will be reinvested into Ukraine, with full control remaining in Kyiv’s hands.

One of the most notable changes is that this deal removes the previous demand that Ukraine repay the US for past aid. Instead, it opens the door to new military support. “This was the first time the Trump administration has spoken about potential future military support for Ukraine,” said Magid, adding that while details are still being worked out, it marks a significant shift in US policy.

For the US, the deal serves multiple goals, economic, strategic, and political. “This is important for the US, and I would say also for all of NATO and certainly for Ukraine,” said Magid, stressing that securing access to critical materials through allies is not just about commerce but national security.

Watch accompanying video for entire conversation.