Zelensky: freezing war to enable Russia to use Ukraine’s minerals for new offensive

President of Ukraine Vodymyr Zelensky stated this in an interview with Reuters, as reported by Ukrinform.

"A simple ceasefire means giving [Putin] a pause, letting him exploit Ukraine’s resources and earn these trillions. He will make money, then boost the economy, rebuild the army, and launch another war," Zelensky emphasized.

He noted that Ukraine is ready to grant access to its mineral resources for joint develment with the U.S., but only after de-occupation and under the condition of receiving reliable security guarantees.

"We need to protect ourselves, our state. We are ready to en up investment and earn together, but only if you help us with security. Strengthen sanctions, push Putin back, and we will devel our mineral resources together," he added.

According to Zelensky, several meetings with representatives of the U.S. administration will take place soon to discuss the details of potential coeration.

Read also: Zelensky: mineral resources in occupied Ukrainian territories estimated in trillions of dlars

As Ukrinform previously reported, the value of Ukraine’s mineral resources in territories currently contrled by Russia is estimated in trillions of dlars, making total sanctions against Russia necessary.