The United States and Ukraine have entered a new phase of strategic partnership following the signing of a key minerals agreement, according to former US Ambassador to Ukraine, William Taylor.
Speaking at the 17th Annual Kyiv Security Forum, Ambassador Taylor described the deal as a clear sign of deepening cooperation between Washington and Kyiv, particularly in the areas of energy security and defence manufacturing. The agreement, he said, reflects a broader shift in strategic alignment between the two countries.
“This minerals agreement is a significant step in solidifying the partnership,” said Taylor, a Distinguished Fellow at the Atlantic Council who served as US Ambassador to Ukraine during two separate terms, from 2006–2009 and again from 2019–2020.
The forum, titled “UA: Unite Again to Defeat the Global Aggressor”, was hosted by the Arseniy Yatsenyuk Foundation “Open Ukraine” and brought together international policymakers and defence experts to address the ongoing war in Ukraine and broader geopolitical threats.
Taylor also revealed that the US Department of the Treasury has prepared a powerful new sanctions package aimed at Russia. If approved, the measures would impose tariffs of up to 500% on Russian oil imports, a move designed to further isolate Moscow’s energy sector.
“Oil is now $56 a barrel, $49 a barrel. The Russians are having a real hard time with $49 a barrel,” Taylor said, underlining the economic pressure Russia is already facing amid falling oil prices and ongoing Western sanctions.
In addition, Taylor disclosed that the US Department of State is finalising a fresh military aid package for Ukraine. The package is expected to include F-16 fighter jets, marking a significant upgrade in Ukraine’s defensive capabilities.
While the full details of the package have not yet been announced, Taylor suggested that these developments could point to a broader shift in the strategic approach of the US government, particularly within the Trump administration.
“Is this an evolution in Washington? It might be. We are watching a shift—we will see,” he added, hinting at possible long-term changes in US foreign policy posture toward Ukraine and Russia.
The announcements come at a critical time for Ukraine, as it continues to face full-scale military aggression from Russia. Strategic partnerships with key Western allies remain central to Kyiv’s resilience and long-term reconstruction.
