Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a striking declaration on Friday, stating that Ukraine does not recognise the $66.5 billion in US military aid as a loan. Speaking at a press conference, Zelensky emphasised that Kyiv remains grateful for the assistance but firmly rejected any characterisation of it as credit.

"We are grateful for the support, but this is not a credit, and we will not allow it," Zelensky asserted, further adding that his government had received a new draft agreement from the US concerning critical minerals. According to him, this new framework is "completely different" from the previous agreement.

US Military Aid to Ukraine: Key Figures

In a press release on March 12, the US Department of State confirmed that Washington has provided Ukraine with $66.5 billion in military assistance since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. Additionally, since 2014, the total aid amounts to approximately $69.2 billion.

"We have now used the emergency Presidential Drawdown Authority on 55 occasions since August 2021 to provide Ukraine military assistance totalling approximately $31.7 billion from Department of Defense (DoD) stockpiles," the statement read.

Zelensky Open to Talks—But Not With Putin

During the press briefing, Zelensky signaled openness to negotiations with Russian representatives, provided President Vladimir Putin is not involved.

"I think that in principle, we would agree not to talk with him [Putin] or with someone who represents him. However, I believe there are individuals in Russia, including those from serious business sectors, with whom we could communicate if they have a vision for ending the war," he said.

Zelensky’s Strained Relations with the US Administration

This declaration comes weeks after a tense meeting between Zelensky and US President Donald Trump, along with Vice President JD Vance, at the White House. Recalling the encounter, Zelensky admitted, "It was just a really tough situation."

US Proposes Expansive New Minerals Agreement with Ukraine

Meanwhile, sources indicate that Washington has revised its proposed minerals agreement with Ukraine. The latest draft, obtained by Reuters, reportedly demands that Kyiv contribute all revenue generated from its natural resources to a joint investment fund. This requirement applies to both state-owned and private enterprises operating in Ukraine’s territory.

Unlike earlier discussions, the updated proposal does not offer Ukraine any security guarantees. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has been leading these negotiations on behalf of the US government.

This revised minerals deal expands upon the original terms that were on the table during last month’s controversial Oval Office meeting between Trump and Zelensky. The proposal’s stricter terms and lack of security assurances may further strain Kyiv’s already fragile relations with Washington.