He noted that Ukraine has discussed this issue with representatives of the United States government, including U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
"Many people have said that there is a certain logic in the United States, and they are entitled to that logic: 'if we enter these facilities – this [already] serves as security guarantees, and in places where these minerals are located, the Russians will not go because this is our business, our private companies.' Everything would be fine if it weren't for the fact that over 20 companies are currently operating in the occupied territories from the United States." And that was my response," said Zelensky.
The president emphasized that American businesses existed in Ukraine even before the war initiated by the aggressor state, Russia.
"I am grateful to them for being present. [...] But this indicates that it does not provide a 100% guarantee that the 'Ruskies' will not come to places they have already invaded. [...] The example of American companies that have suffered at various points during this war [due to the Russian invasion] shows that [illegitimate President of the Russian Federation Vladimir] Putin, if he wishes, will not be stopped by anything in the event of renewed aggression," he believes.