Trump halts military aid to Ukraine, sparking outrage
Donald Trump announced the suspension of military aid to Ukraine, causing concern in Kyiv. "It's nothing short of cold-blooded blackmail," said a high-ranking Ukrainian official to "Bild".
A White House representative confirmed in a statement to the media that President Donald Trump has suspended all military aid to Ukraine, stating that the decision is to "ensure that it contributes to the resolution" of the conflict.
The President has made it clear that he is focused on peace. We need our partners to be committed to this goal as well. We are suspending and reviewing our assistance to ensure that it contributes to the resolution, stated the White House representative.
Trump's decision aims to pressure President Volodymyr Zelensky to agree to American terms of the agreement. This move has caused concern in Kyiv and among Ukrainian soldiers on the front line.
A high-ranking Ukrainian official told Bild that the move amounts to outright cold-blooded blackmail. However, they noted that, for now, it will not immediately impact the front line.
Ukrainian soldiers, especially those fighting in Donbas, have anxiously received the news of the possible aid suspension. One of them admitted that although the situation is difficult, they still have hope.
We are in shock, but there is a certain kind of optimism within us. There were times when we had only five rounds a day, yet we defended our position, said a soldier in an interview with "Bild".
In European capitals, there is an understanding of Ukraine's difficult situation, but at the same time, pressure is being exerted to find a solution with Trump. Zelensky, however, continues to demand security guarantees before agreeing to negotiations.
Intense diplomatic talks are ongoing in Kyiv with Washington and Brussels. Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal expressed readiness to sign a joint investment fund agreement with the USA.
We are ready to communicate and travel to sign it, said Shmyhal, awaiting a response from Washington.
Challenges for Zelensky
President Zelensky faces a tough choice. While most Ukrainians support his resistance to Trump's pressure, it is unclear how they will react to the eventual suspension of aid.
The underlying question remains, whether Trump truly wants to support Ukraine, or is pursuing his own interests.
Trump may shock Ukraine with further announcements as early as this evening during his speech before Congress. But it is also possible that by his threats and withholding of aid, he will prompt Zelensky to give in, journalists from "Bild" point out.
