By Kashifa Wisal
The government of Ukraine strongly condemned the move by U.S. President Donald Trump to suspend military aid to Ukraine, stating that it might drive Kyiv towards agreeing to surrender to Russia. The move came after a letter by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy indicating Ukraine’s willingness to negotiate with Russia in a bid to end the war.
In his speech to Congress on Tuesday, Trump read from Zelenskiy’s letter, saying Ukraine was willing to enter negotiations. “Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer,” Trump said. He added that he has been negotiating with Russia and getting indications that they were willing to negotiate peace.
Trump emphasized a prospective minerals agreement between the U.S. and Ukraine, which he claimed was critical to ensuring American support. But within minutes, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent refuted Trump’s words, informing Fox News that no plans existed to sign the deal.
In reaction to the suspension of military aid, Zelenskiy said he was determined to mend frayed relations with the U.S. after a recent spat in the Oval Office. Zelenskiy expressed regret over the contentious meeting with Trump, reiterating his willingness to sign the minerals agreement. “We do really value how much America has done to help Ukraine maintain its sovereignty,” Zelenskiy said.
Zelenskiy also described a potential peace process, providing Russia is also willing to do so. He stressed an urgent move to a final agreement.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denies Shmyhal assured that Ukraine would keep cooperating with the U.S. “Our plan is simple – to win and to survive,” Shmyhal stated.
The U.S. Democrats have been concerned with Trump’s change in policy towards Russia, which is a drastic departure from the long-existing U.S. policy.
The withholding of American aid has put pressure on European allies, which have helped fund Ukraine’s struggle. European leaders in Germany, France, and Britain are stepping up to improve defense spending, with Germany putting forward a €500 billion defense fund and the European Union planning an €800 billion on mobilization. As developments happen, the global community is confronted with increased uncertainty regarding the war’s destiny.