Expanding Cooperation Between Ukraine and the USA: A Win-Win Strategy

January 15, 2025 | UIFuture

On Tuesday, January 14, Anatoliy Amelin, Executive Director and Head of Economic Programs at the Ukrainian Institute for the Future (UIF), together with Yana Lavryk, Economic Programs Expert at UIF, presented the findings of their research titled “Expanding Ukraine–US Cooperation: A Win-Win Strategy.” The presentation was followed by a discussion featuring prominent experts in diplomacy, business, and economics.

“The United States is a highly pragmatic country. Their interests come first, and we’ve studied them carefully. The goal of this research is to determine our position in this equation and propose ways to intensify cooperation between Ukraine and the US across various sectors—benefiting both sides.”
– Anatoliy Amelin

Comprehensive Analysis of Ukraine–US Economic Relations

The event focused on a detailed analysis of the current state of Ukraine–US economic cooperation, exploring opportunities and potential benefits. The research aimed to identify areas where both nations can partner effectively.

Structure of the Event

The event was divided into two parts:

1. Presentation of Research Findings by:

–        Anatoliy Amelin, Executive Director of UIF

–        Yana Lavryk, Economic Programs Expert at UIF

2. Panel Discussion with invited experts:

–        Vadym Prystaiko, Ukrainian diplomat, former Minister of Foreign Affairs (2019–2020), and Ukraine’s Ambassador to the UK (2020–2023)

–        Serhiy Vlasenko, Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources of Ukraine (Digital Development)

–        Mykhailo Bno-Airiian, Special Trade Representative and Chair of the Federation of Employers of Ukraine Committee

–        Serhiy Voytsehovskyi, Board Member at BGV Group Management

–        Natalia Sydoruk, GR Director at Interpipe

–        Vladyslav Faraponov, Head of the Institute of American Studies, Analyst at Internews Ukraine

–        Andriy Tarasenko, Chief Analyst at GMK Center

Key Insights from the Research Presentation

During the presentation, Yana Lavryk highlighted that since the start of the war, Ukraine has received $95 billion in aid from the United States. However, now is the time to transition from unilateral assistance to a “win-win” partnership model.

Lavryk emphasized the US’s approach to aid: ensuring macroeconomic stability and providing countries with essential resources for survival. While economic development is desirable, it is not guaranteed. Historical examples such as Israel and South Korea demonstrate how nations can effectively leverage US assistance to transform their economies and achieve self-sufficiency.

Anatoliy Amelin noted that comparisons between Ukraine and these countries are increasingly common. Since 1946, the US has invested over $400 billion in these nations, transforming them into economic powerhouses.

“Today, we are like an African nation. We need to become a developed European country—this must be part of our strategy. The US is not a charity; every dollar is accounted for. We must ensure that our cooperation is mutually beneficial.”
– Anatoliy Amelin

Opportunities for a Win-Win Partnership

The research identified key motivations behind US trade preferences and agreements, often driven by geopolitical interests. These include promoting democratic values, enhancing security, and protecting American interests. Ukraine must take these factors into account to position itself as a valuable partner.

Areas for Expanding Cooperation:

• Critical Materials: Investments in extraction and processing industries.
• Metallurgy and Agriculture: Enhancing trade and developing joint projects in processing industries.
• Innovation Hub: Positioning Ukraine as an innovation cluster for the US and its allies.

Amelin proposed creating favorable conditions for American investors, emphasizing that Ukraine should not remain solely a raw material exporter. The country has potential in advanced technologies, as demonstrated by the historical downing of a helicopter with a Ukrainian drone.

Highlights from the Panel Discussion

The second part of the event focused on actionable strategies to strengthen Ukraine–US bilateral partnerships and develop new initiatives for strategic growth:

• Andriy Tarasenko addressed trade barriers in the metallurgical sector, noting that overcoming these challenges requires restructuring Ukraine’s relationships with American partners.
• Vadym Prystaiko emphasized the importance of increasing market access for Ukrainian products, noting that sectors like defense, security, and aerospace are natural areas of state control, while the private sector must lead other industries.
• Serhiy Vlasenko outlined Ukraine’s potential in lithium and titanium production, stressing the need for modernization and US partnerships to capitalize on these resources.
• Natalia Sydoruk shared the success story of Interpipe’s high-margin tubular products in the US market, proving that businesses can thrive by adhering to regulations and finding solutions within the legal framework.
• Serhiy Voytsehovskyi called for teamwork within Ukraine, stating, “America is our strategic partner, but we need to do our homework. Both business and government must work as a team to achieve shared goals.”
• Vladyslav Faraponov highlighted the importance of engaging US state governors and local politicians to expand market opportunities, though he acknowledged this as a long-term effort.
• Mykhailo Bno-Airiian stressed the need to maintain business activity in rural areas, citing the critical role of Ukrainian businesses in sustaining the country’s resilience and future growth.

Conclusion and Next Steps

The experts agreed that Ukraine’s economic transformation requires a shift from a resource-based model to one centered on innovation and productivity. Achieving this will take significant effort, but it is possible through a strategic partnership with the US.

Anatoliy Amelin announced that the research findings will be presented in Washington on February 5, 2025, a critical step in strengthening Ukraine–US relations.Thank you to everyone who participated in this important discussion! To watch a recording of the event, visit UIF’s Facebook page. Stay tuned for the announcement of our next event.