Further Ukraine peace negotiations are welcome but must not be based on resource exploitation, otherwise it risks Ukraine sovereignty, Global Witness says.
As initial peace talks between US and Russian presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin concluded today, experts from the investigative organisation warned against any future negotiations being reliant on carving up the country’s minerals and resources.
Global Witness is calling for an ongoing ceasefire to end violence and instability, but stresses that any peace deal must be just, transparent and centre the rights of local communities. A White House statement said that a bilateral relationship between the US and Russia had a “huge upside” including “enormous economic deals when peace has been achieved”.
Emily Iona Stewart, Global Witness Head of Policy and EU Relations, said:
“Peace in Ukraine is paramount. But any future negotiation that ties Ukraine’s sovereignty to the control of its natural resources raises serious concerns.
“Ukraine’s resources are likely to remain a key battleground, whether through conflict or corporate capture. Any future carve-up of Ukraine’s critical minerals and energy assets in exchange for security assurances sets a dangerous precedent—one where access to resources dictates national security commitments.
“If peace in Ukraine is brokered by the US and Russia, there is a real risk that Ukraine’s critical minerals and energy infrastructure is claimed under the guise of investment and support. Ukraine’s green transition must be shaped by its citizens, not dictated by international deals that trade security for resource control.
“Governments and investors must commit to an energy future that is fair, transparent, and respects Ukraine’s sovereignty.”