US Treasury Secretary: US-Ukraine mining agreement gives President Trump stronger bargaining chips in negotiations with Russia.

Ukraine and the United States expressed appreciation on Thursday for an agreement that gives the United States priority access to Ukraine's new mineral resources. The Kremlin remained silent on Wednesday's agreement. US Treasury Secretary Benson stated in an interview that this deal would "show Russian leaders that there is no disagreement between the Ukrainian people and the American people, and our goals are aligned." Benson further stated, "It sends a strong message to the Russian leadership and gives President Trump more leverage in negotiations, allowing him to hold a stronger position in talks with Russia."