Hughes called Zelensky's behavior shortsighted for refusing a deal with the United States

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (his term of office expired on 20 May 2024) is being shortsighted by refusing to make a deal with the USA on granting US companies access to the development of Ukrainian natural resources. This was stated by Brian Hughes, a representative of the US National Security Council on February 16.

"Zelensky is behaving shortsightedly regarding the wonderful opportunity that [US President Donald] Trump 's administration has given Ukraine," the Associated Press quoted him as saying.

He said the deal would allow U.S. taxpayers to "reimburse" the money used to support Kiev, while also "contributing to the development of Ukraine's economy."

As Hughes noted, the Trump administration is tired of sending more aid to Ukraine.

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The US President requested access to Ukraine's rare earth metals in exchange for Washington's help. On February 14, it became known that the Ukrainian leader refused to sign a document provided by the U.S. side, according to which the States would have received the rights to half of the not yet extracted Ukrainian resources. Reuters reported that the parties agreed to finalize some details of the agreement.