Doha: Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha confirmed that Ukraine is collaborating with the United States to reach a mutually acceptable agreement on a mineral deal.

According to Qatar News Agency, Sybiha revealed during a press conference on Tuesday that consultations on a new draft of the mineral deal have already taken place. He emphasized that any agreement leading to a strong US economic presence in Ukraine would contribute to the country’s security infrastructure.

He mentioned that the process will continue as they work with their American colleagues to finalize a mutually acceptable formula for signing. Sybiha’s remarks come after US President Donald Trump accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of attempting to evade the agreement, warning of serious consequences if that happens.

Last Friday, Zelensky stated that Ukraine would not accept any mineral rights agreement that jeopardizes its integration with the European Union. Washington had proposed an expanded mineral agreement after the two sides failed to sign a framework deal during Zelensky’s visit to the US in late February, a visit that ended in a heated exchange with Trump in the Oval Office.