Washington: Steve Witkoff, US special envoy to the Middle East, defended a proposed minerals deal with Ukraine on Thursday, stating it is a way for Washington to recoup its contributions to the war effort against Russia. 'He (President Donald Trump) found out that we had contributed significantly more than the Europeans to this war effort, but the Europeans had loan agreements to pay them back. He just didn't think that was fair,' Witkoff told Fox News.

According to Anadolu Agency, the deal, which reportedly requires Ukraine to cede half its revenues from minerals, gas, oil, and infrastructure, aims to create a $500 billion fund controlled by the US. Witkoff emphasized that the agreement is similar to European loan arrangements, ensuring the US is repaid for its support. The proposal has faced criticism from Kyiv, which seeks security guarantees in exchange.

Responding to claims that the deal is done, Witkoff said the visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the US on Friday is a 'good sign.' He said Trump wants to put the deal behind and get a peace deal done between Ukraine and Russia. Asked if there is a possibility of cooperation with Russia, which is also rich in those types of minerals, Witkoff said: 'I think there'll be plenty of opportunities for the United States with Russia when this peace deal gets finished.'

Also answering a question about the first phase of the ceasefire between Hamas and Israel, Witkoff evaluated it as an 'accomplishment' and described it as a success of the US president.