President Donald Trump has ordered a pause on U.S. military aid to Ukraine following a heated argument with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office last week, a White House official confirmed Monday. The suspension, which follows meetings with top national security officials, aims to pressure Ukraine into peace talks.
Officials warn the move could weaken Ukraine’s battlefield capabilities, with potential long-term consequences for its defence against Russia. While European allies may fill some gaps, Kyiv relies on U.S. advanced weaponry like ATACMS missiles.
The pause underscores a growing rift between Washington and Kyiv, as Trump has recently echoed Russian President Vladimir Putin’s rhetoric, falsely claiming Ukraine started the war.
Republicans remain divided, with some backing Trump’s decision, while others, like Sen. Susan Collins, call it a dangerous move that benefits Putin. The aid freeze could significantly impact Ukraine’s defence strategy in the coming months.
