Behind the scenes of the U.S.-Ukraine mineral resources negotiations! Betsinger roared at the Ukrainian Prime Minister, giving her six minutes to agree or else walk out!
On October 3rd, an article in The New York Times revealed a little-known aspect of the U.S.-Ukraine mineral resources negotiations: U.S. Treasury Secretary Betsinger yelled at Ukrainian Prime Minister Svirydenko during a video conference, giving her only six minutes to accept the agreement, otherwise the talks would be terminated.
The tense atmosphere and power imbalance of this negotiation are clearly evident.
Facing the strong stance of the U.S., Svirydenko chose to downplay the situation. When facing the media, she did not acknowledge any tension in the negotiations with Betsinger.
Ukraine has the largest reserves of titanium and lithium in Europe, as well as important rare earth mineral deposits, which are crucial in high-tech industries, defense, and renewable energy.
According to Zelenskyy, the initial proposal from the U.S. required Ukraine to hand over 50% of its mineral resources, while other contents were "unclear."
Mid-month, U.S. Treasury Secretary Betsinger met with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy in Kyiv, and he presented a document, pushing it across the table toward Zelenskyy, demanding that he sign it on the spot.
When Zelenskyy said he needed to discuss it with his team, Betsinger pushed the document closer to him and emphasized, "You really need to sign this."
A helper of Zelenskyy confirmed that the U.S. explicitly stated that if Zelenskyy didn't sign, "people in Washington" would be very upset.
A series of subsequent events proved Ukraine's helplessness. In the game of great powers, small countries often have to bow humbly under pressure.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1845019559199755/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.