Trump Administration Freezes Military Aid to Ukraine Amid Peace Deal Push
President Donald Trump has directed his administration to pause all military aid to Ukraine, according to White House officials. The decision follows a tense Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, where Trump reportedly pressured Kyiv to accept a peace deal to end Russia’s invasion.
The freeze comes as Ukraine remains heavily dependent on Western military and economic support to counter Russia’s ongoing aggression. Experts warn that while Europe has ramped up arms production, critical American military systems—including advanced ammunition, intelligence, and weaponry—will be difficult to replace.
Zelenskyy Signals Willingness to Negotiate
Reacting to the aid suspension, Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine is ready to return to the negotiating table and sign a minerals agreement at any time. He emphasized that “nobody wants peace more than Ukrainians” and that his administration remains committed to working with the U.S. under Trump’s leadership.
However, he acknowledged the deteriorating relationship, calling the Oval Office meeting disappointing and urging a more constructive dialogue moving forward.
Russia Reacts as Kyiv Faces Strategic Dilemma
The Kremlin welcomed Trump’s announcement. Russian government spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the move could force Ukraine toward peace talks, adding that Kyiv risks losing critical military supplies without U.S. support.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials are expressing shock and frustration. Oleksandr Merezhko, Chair of Ukraine’s Foreign Affairs Committee, condemned the decision, saying, “Trump is helping Putin to kill Ukrainians.”
European Allies Urged to Step Up
A Ukrainian intelligence official warned that while the immediate effects of the freeze may not be felt for two weeks, severe ammunition shortages could hit by June or July. The official described the move as a “black day for Ukraine and Europe” and called on European allies to step in and fill the gap left by the U.S.
White House Defends Decision
A White House official explained that Trump’s priority is peace, stating, “We are pausing and reviewing our aid to ensure that it is contributing to a solution.”
However, Ukrainian lawmakers fear the decision amounts to Trump negotiating with Russia at Ukraine’s expense. MP Oleksiy Goncharenko described the move as “catastrophic”, warning that thousands could die as a result.
What’s Next?
Despite the aid freeze, Ukraine’s Prime Minister Denis Shmyhal expressed confidence that U.S. support will continue and vowed to keep working with Congress and the Trump administration to ensure stability.
As Ukraine faces mounting pressure to strike a peace deal, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the future of U.S.-Ukraine relations and Kyiv’s ability to defend itself against Russian aggression.
Source: abc