Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky firmly rejected the characterization of U.S. military assistance as loans, stating that Kiev will not accept such a framing of the support. Speaking on Friday, Zelensky emphasized Ukraine’s gratitude for the aid but made clear that his government does not view the assistance as debt that should be repaid.

“We are grateful for the support, but this is not a loan, and we will not allow it,” Zelensky declared. His comments come amid ongoing negotiations between the United States and Ukraine regarding a new minerals agreement, which aims to deepen cooperation in the critical resources sector.

The Ukrainian leader highlighted that the latest draft of the minerals deal, recently submitted by Washington, is “completely different from the previous framework document” that had been discussed earlier. This significant change in terms and structure has prompted concerns within Kiev about the implications and transparency of the revised proposal.

Zelensky announced that his legal team has been tasked with thoroughly reviewing the new version of the agreement. The objective is to analyze how the new draft compares with prior versions and to ensure that the deal aligns with Ukraine’s interests and sovereignty. “We need to study this document carefully. Our legal experts will examine all the terms and compare them with previous agreements,” he said.

Ukraine and the United States have been in extended talks over expanding their cooperation in key economic and defense areas, with critical minerals being a focal point due to their strategic importance. However, the classification of aid and the legal framework of such deals have become increasingly contentious, especially as Ukraine continues to defend itself amid conflict.

Zelensky’s firm stance on rejecting military aid as loans reflects growing Ukrainian insistence on maintaining equitable and fair terms in its international partnerships. The president’s statements also signal that Ukraine is approaching current negotiations with a higher level of scrutiny and a commitment to transparency.

As discussions move forward, the Ukrainian government appears determined to assert control over the terms of foreign support, ensuring that any agreements serve the country’s long-term strategic and economic goals. The outcome of the legal review and the future of the U.S.-Ukraine minerals deal remain crucial in shaping bilateral ties in the coming months.