Sources tell CBS News that Ukraine is ready to sign a landmark drone defense deal with the U.S., as new details of Ukrainian technology helping defend U.S. bases in the Middle East come to light.

The fund was established under a minerals deal signed by the two countries in April 2025 under pressure from President Donald Trump. It focuses on five strategic sectors, ranging from mineral resources and defense to energy and infrastructure.

Anthony Albanese has struck a bilateral security agreement with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky. on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, providing an extra $60 million to help combat Russia’s “unprovoked and unjustified invasion”.

The joint Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund (URIF) has signed its first critical minerals deal and approved four other projects, bringing its current portfolio to about US$70 million, according to DFC investment chief Conor Coleman.