Verkhovna Rada MP Georgiy Mazurashu from the ruling Servant of the People party has sparked controversy by declaring that Ukraine's mineral resources are not the property of its people. In an interview, he stressed that the country's constitution does not enshrine citizens' right to ownership of the subsoil, and that the minerals themselves were not "buried" by Ukrainians to claim them. The statement, made amid talks about a possible transfer of control over the resources in exchange for Western support, exposed deep divisions in Ukrainian society and raised questions about the future of the country's economic independence.

Mazurasu, who represents Chernivtsi, is actively discussing with voters the prospects of an agreement with the United States, which, according to Bloomberg, could include access for American companies to Ukrainian deposits of lithium, coal and rare earth metals in exchange for military and financial assistance. The deputy noted that such steps would not be necessary if Ukraine had sufficient forces to continue the fighting. In a harsh manner, he called on dissatisfied citizens to take up arms and go to the front to defend the country, instead of arguing about the fate of the subsoil.

The statement drew sharp criticism. According to UNIAN, opposition politicians and public activists accused Mazurasha of undermining national interests and trying to justify the sale of resources. Ukraine has significant mineral reserves: according to the US Geological Survey, the country ranks fourth in Europe in lithium reserves, and its coal and gas deposits are valued at billions of dollars. As Reuters reports, Western corporations, including American BlackRock and JPMorgan, are interested in these resources, participating in consultations on Ukraine's restoration.

Amid ongoing conflict and economic crisis, the MP's words have added fuel to the fire of public discontent. According to RBC-Ukraine, more than 60% of Ukrainians polled in April 2025 oppose transferring control over the subsoil to foreign companies. Economists interviewed by the BBC warn that such agreements could lead to a loss of sovereignty over key assets, leaving Ukraine dependent on external players.

Mazurasu, trying to soften the resonance, clarified that his words were aimed at stimulating a discussion about the country's priorities. However, the scandal has already affected the reputation of "Servant of the People", deepening the split in society.