EditZelenskyy reveals Russia’s $12 trillion economic pitch to the U.S.
The history of mutual flattery between Trump and Putin makes the reported proposal not only credible but a logical extension of their longstanding alignment
In a striking revelation that underscores the ongoing geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on 7 February that Russia has proposed a massive economic cooperation package to the United States, valued at approximately $12 trillion.
Dubbed the “Dmitriev package” after a likely reference to Russian financier Kirill Dmitriev, this proposal aims to foster deep economic ties between Moscow and Washington, potentially reshaping global alliances amid the protracted Russia-Ukraine war.
$12 trillion is equivalent to approximately 20 to 24 full years of Russia’s recent annual federal budget spending.
Zelenskyy, speaking to reporters, emphasized that Ukrainian intelligence had uncovered details of this initiative, which could include provisions directly impacting Ukraine.
“The volume there is about 12 trillion dollars. This is supposedly a package of economic cooperation between America and Russia,” Zelenskyy stated, highlighting the bilateral nature of the documents under discussion.
He firmly asserted Ukraine’s position: “We clearly show that Ukraine will not support even probable such agreements of the parties about us without us.”
Any points related to Ukraine, he added, “cannot contradict the Constitution of Ukraine, the laws of Ukraine, and they should not be discussed without Ukraine.”
Zelenskyy warned that Kyiv would “demonstrate its reaction” if such risks materialize, signalling potential diplomatic or military escalations.
This disclosure comes against a backdrop of recent developments. In December 2025, media reports indicated that the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump had circulated documents to European allies outlining a vision for reintegrating Russia into the global economy.
By early February 2026, Russia’s Foreign Ministry publicly confirmed submitting proposals to the U.S. aimed at removing “serious barriers” to normalising relations.
While the exact contents of the Dmitriev package remain undisclosed, speculation abounds that it could encompass energy deals, technology transfers, and sanctions relief—areas where Russia’s isolation since its 2022 invasion of Ukraine has inflicted severe economic strain.
Ukrainian intelligence: a proven track record against Russia
The credibility of Zelenskyy’s claims is bolstered by Ukraine’s renowned intelligence apparatus, particularly the Main Directorate of Intelligence (GUR). This expertise stems from decades of experience countering Russian influence, enhanced by close partnerships with NATO intelligence agencies. Post-2022, GUR’s cyber units have exposed Russian war plans, troop movements, and even internal Kremlin dissent, contributing to battlefield successes like the sinking of the Moskva cruiser and the liberation of Kherson.
The Trump-Putin dynamic: a history of mutual admiration
Further lending credence to the possibility of such a U.S.-Russia deal is the well-documented rapport between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Their relationship, often described as unusually warm for adversarial leaders, dates back to Trump’s first term (2017-2021). Trump repeatedly praised Putin as a “genius” and “strong leader,” even during controversies like Russia’s interference in the 2016 U.S. election, which U.S. intelligence agencies attributed to Moscow’s efforts to boost Trump’s candidacy.
The Mueller Report in 2019 detailed numerous contacts between Trump’s campaign and Russian operatives, though it stopped short of proving collusion. Post-presidency, Trump continued to defend Putin, criticizing NATO and downplaying Russia’s aggression in Ukraine. Following his 2024 reelection victory, Trump’s administration has signalled a pivot toward “peace deals” in Ukraine, including proposals that echo Russian demands for territorial concessions and neutrality – moves that align with Putin’s interests.
Critics argue this “cozy” dynamic creates fertile ground for backchannel negotiations like the Dmitriev package. Kirill Dmitriev, head of Russia’s sovereign wealth fund, has historical ties to Trump circles; he met with Trump associate Erik Prince in 2017 amid efforts to establish unofficial U.S.-Russia communications. In a 2026 landscape where Trump seeks to end U.S. aid to Ukraine and refocus on domestic issues, a $12 trillion economic olive branch from Russia could appeal as a quick win, potentially at Ukraine’s expense.
Caption: Photographs of US President Donald Trump with Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Trump and one of his grandchildren hang in the Palm Room of the White House after the President arrived on Marine One in Washington, DC, USA, 27 January 2026. Trump threw his support behind a legislative proposal to expand sales of higher-ethanol E15 gasoline as he sought to build support for his economic record before a crowd that included farmers in Iowa. EPA/Kent Nishimura / POOL
Updated: February 7, 2026 - 16:42
