US President Donald Trump has ordered a freeze on military aid to Ukraine following a tense Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The pause, confirmed by White House officials, comes after a series of high-level security discussions and signals a significant shift in US-Ukraine relations. The aid will remain suspended until Trump determines that Ukraine is committed to peace talks, raising concerns over the impact on Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression.
The aid freeze covers key military shipments, including advanced ATACMS missiles that have been vital for Ukrainian forces. Analysts warn that while European nations may step in to supply some equipment, the loss of US aid could severely weaken Ukraine’s ability to sustain its military efforts. Military experts describe the halt as potentially crippling, with long-term implications for Ukraine’s battlefield performance.
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The decision follows a heated exchange in which Trump and Vice President JD Vance accused Zelenskyy of failing to show sufficient gratitude for US military support. Reports suggest that the administration may be demanding an apology from Zelenskyy, further complicating diplomatic relations. European leaders have criticized the move, with some calling it harmful and warning that it could lead to higher civilian casualties.
The freeze has also sparked mixed reactions among Republicans, with some backing Trump’s decision to push for negotiations, while others, like Senator Susan Collins, argue that the pause is a mistake. The halt underscores deepening tensions within US foreign policy and leaves Ukraine’s defense against Russia in a precarious position.
