WEBDESK: U.S. President Donald Trump has officially ceased all military aid to Ukraine, deepening the current crisis between the two countries.
The decision, confirmed by a White House official, marks a change in U.S. foreign policy and has drawn criticism from both American lawmakers and international allies.
Why Trump halted Ukraine military aid
According to reports, Donald Trump’s decision comes after a tense meeting between him and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The US leader believes that Ukraine has not been thankful enough for past aid and has been pushing for negotiations with Russia for a swift resolution.
Analysts warn that no aid from the US could severely impact Ukraine’s ability to sustain its military efforts against Russian forces. The move has been strongly criticised by NATO allies and European leaders who feel that it would weaken Ukraine’s forces in the ongoing battles with Russia.
International response to aid freeze
European nations, including France and Germany, have rallied around Zelensky and have offered to send troops to Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire.
Zelenskiy has made clear that a ceasefire must carry explicit security guarantees from the West to ensure that Russia, which holds about 20% of its land, does not attack again. Donald Trump has refused to give any such guarantees.
US lawmakers from both parties have raised concerns over Trump’s decision. Many argue that halting military aid to Ukraine could encourage Russia and threaten long-term stability in Eastern Europe.
Some members of Congress are reportedly working on legislative measures to reinstate funding, though their success remains uncertain.
What’s next for US-Ukraine relations?
Beyond military aid, the Donald Trump administration has suggested a new approach – potentially tying future support to economic agreements, particularly in Ukraine’s resource sector.
Trump also suggested on Monday that a deal to open up Ukraine’s minerals to U.S. investment could still be agreed despite his frustration with Kyiv,
As Ukraine continues to fight Russian aggression, the suspension of U.S. aid raises critical questions about its future. Whether Trump will reconsider his stance or double down on his decision remains to be seen, but for now, Ukraine must look to other allies for urgent military support.