Zelensky: I Won't Sign US Deal Burdening 10 Generations of Ukrainians

Zelensky Rejects US Deal That Would Bind Ukraine for 10 Generations

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made it clear that he will not sign any agreement with the United States if its terms would require Ukraine to repay a debt that burdens the nation for 10 generations. Speaking at a press conference during the "Ukraine. Year 2025" forum, Zelenskyy stressed that all partnership deals must be mutually beneficial.

A Deal with Strings Attached?

Zelenskyy explained that the proposed US agreement treats American financial aid as a loan rather than a grant. "If the condition is that we receive help but must repay it with profit for the United States, then that is an agreement, not a grant," he said. The president criticized the notion of accepting terms where every dollar of aid would be doubled as a repayment obligation—a scenario that, he argued, would effectively force Ukraine to pay back 100 billion dollars for 50 billion dollars in aid.

Willingness to Discuss, But Not on Unfair Terms

While acknowledging that US assistance to Ukraine continues and that bipartisan support remains strong, Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine is open to a dialogue with US leadership, including President Donald Trump. However, he made it clear that such negotiations can only proceed if the terms are fair and guarantee mutual benefits. "I am ready for a pragmatic dialogue with President Trump," Zelenskyy asserted. "But I will not sign something that burdens 10 generations of Ukrainians."

Parliamentary Ratification and National Interests

Zelenskyy also noted that any agreement would likely require ratification by the Ukrainian parliament. This step, he argued, is crucial to ensure that the deal truly serves Ukraine's interests and does not compromise the nation’s sovereignty. "Our strategic partnerships must protect our national security and economic future," he said.

A Comparison to Other US Deals

The Ukrainian president pointed to how the United States handles its own agreements with other countries. "When the US sells weapons to Israel, Qatar, or Saudi Arabia, they earn 100% profit. We must not accept a deal that leaves Ukraine with a 100% loan," Zelenskyy explained. He underscored that the proposed resource agreement—which even contemplates giving the US control over 50% of Ukraine's rare earth resources as payment—must be revisited and renegotiated to reflect genuine mutual gain.

The Road Ahead

Zelenskyy's remarks come as part of broader discussions about the future of US-Ukraine relations. With previous proposals, such as a 500 billion-dollar fund for resource agreements, already rejected by Ukraine, his stance reinforces a commitment to protect national interests. "If these conditions are imposed, then clearly, Ukraine should not sign the agreement," he declared.

As the debate over US aid and resource agreements continues, Zelenskyy's firm message is that any deal must be equitable, ensuring that Ukraine is not left paying a heavy price for external assistance. The president's call for direct dialogue with President Trump signals his determination to secure a deal that supports Ukraine’s recovery and long-term prosperity without saddling future generations with insurmountable debt.

Stay updated on this evolving story and other key international developments at The Horizons Times.