The Trump administration has decided to pause military aid to Ukraine following a tense meeting between President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy in the Oval Office. Trump stated that Ukraine had not shown enough gratitude for the aid provided by the U.S. since Russia’s invasion in 2014. The State Department reported that $65.9 billion in military assistance had been given to Ukraine to date. Trump falsely claimed Ukraine was responsible for the conflict with Russia and referred to Zelenskyy as a dictator.
Despite the aid pause, Zelenskyy expressed a willingness to sign a deal allowing the U.S. access to Ukraine’s rare-earth minerals and believed the relationship with the U.S. could be salvaged. Senate Republicans had hoped for a continued assistance deal with Ukraine to facilitate peace with Russia. European leaders, including the British Prime Minister and French President, showed increased support for Ukraine following Zelenskyy’s visit to Washington.
Some Republicans criticized the decision to pause aid, with Senate Majority Leader Thune calling the meeting a “missed opportunity.” House Speaker Johnson and Sen. Collins expressed concern over the pause, emphasizing the critical time for Ukraine. Despite the aid pause, officials from various countries pledged ongoing support for Ukraine’s fight for dignity and independence, with European Commission President von der Leyen stating that Zelenskyy was “never alone” in their efforts for peace.
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