Imagine an oil-, gas-, and rare-mineral-rich war-torn country that is ready to become a key component of American wealth. Ukraine is battling not only to survive but also to access a bounty of resources that the US has now claimed. With a historic agreement reached on May 1, Ukraine’s prosperity will determine America’s economic future, with a joint fund receiving half of the country’s natural wealth income.
The problem is that this fantastic chance can pass by if the US does not provide strong military backing to stop Russian aggression. Arming Ukraine is a strategic decision to put an end to the conflict, protect our investment, and change the world order; it is not a humanitarian gesture.
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The US must provide Ukraine with an overwhelming arsenal – advanced weaponry, air defenses, and long-range systems – to swiftly end the war and protect the US’ economic stake. This isn’t just about stopping Russia; it’s about ensuring Ukraine emerges as a stable, prosperous partner capable of delivering on the 50 percent profit-sharing deal.
A fully armed Ukraine can push Russia to the negotiating table or out of the fight entirely, safeguarding US interests while cementing American influence in a resource-rich region. Hesitation risks losing both the war and the economic windfall.
The crisis in Ukraine is a global economic and strategic chessboard, not just a European issue. Global food security is in jeopardy, inflation has surged, and energy markets have been upended by Russia’s incursion.
ISW Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, June 21, 2026
The stakes are personal for Americans because this battle is to blame for supply chain problems, grocery costs, and petrol prices. The US is in a position to challenge China’s hegemony in these markets and stabilize domestic prices due to the US-Ukraine mineral deal, which will give America a portion of Ukraine’s oil, gas, and vital minerals like lithium and cobalt.
However, Ukraine’s stability and security are crucial to this agreement. People are concerned because it affects their finances, security, and the reputation of the US abroad. In addition to giving autocrats more confidence, a Russian triumph would put the economic gains associated with Ukraine’s resources at jeopardy.
Key reasons why the US must arm Ukraine
Three main arguments support arming Ukraine: military necessity, economic self-interest, and strategic superiority.
First of all, let’s face it: Ukraine cannot win this war with incremental aid alone. Despite Ukraine’s hard-won victories in Kharkiv, as of May this year, Russia still controls roughly 18 percent of Ukrainian land, including parts of Donetsk and Luhansk.
The HIMARS and Patriot systems provided by the US have undoubtedly changed the game, but Ukraine still lacks the long-range missiles, fighter jets, and sophisticated drones required to truly make a difference. Not only would sending F-16s, ATACMS, and additional drones be beneficial, but it would also enable Ukraine to destroy Russian airfields and supply routes, bringing Moscow’s war machine to a complete stop.
And the worst part is this: According to military analysts, a $50 billion arms deal could provide Ukraine with what it needs to retake critical territory within a year—potentially forcing Russia to the negotiating table.
Economically, the US has skin in the game. Ukraine’s proven reserves include 1.2 trillion cubic meters of natural gas and vast deposits of lithium, critical for EV batteries. The 2025 deal ensures the US gets 50 percent of the profits from these resources, potentially worth tens of billions annually by 2030.
But this payout depends on Ukraine’s ability to secure and develop these assets. Russian occupation of eastern Ukraine threatens key mining regions, while ongoing shelling disrupts energy infrastructure. Arming Ukraine to expel Russian forces protects these assets, ensuring the US reaps the rewards of its investment. Delaying or limiting aid risks a prolonged war, eroding Ukraine’s capacity to deliver.
Strategically, a Ukrainian victory strengthens America’s hand against rivals. Russia’s weakened military – down 600,000 troops since 2022, per NATO estimates – can’t sustain a forever war if Ukraine is fully equipped. A defeated or humbled Russia would deter China’s ambitions in Taiwan and curb Iran’s regional influence, both of which rely on Moscow’s support. Moreover, a stable Ukraine integrated into Western markets bolsters NATO and counters China’s grip on critical minerals. The US can’t afford to let this opportunity slip by through half-measures.
The war in Ukraine isn’t just a distant struggle – It’s America’s chance to secure a slice of the future. By arming Ukraine to the teeth, the US can end the war, protect a lucrative economic stake, and deal a blow to its rivals. Every missile, jet, and drone sent to Kyiv is an investment in a stronger, richer America.
Hesitate, and we risk losing it all to Russia’s grind. Go all-in, and we’ll see Ukraine rise, Russia fall, and US coffers overflow with the spoils of victory. The choice is clear: arm Ukraine now or pay the price later.
The views expressed are the author’s and not necessarily of Kyiv Post.
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