Ukraine reacted with shock to the suspension of U.S. military aid ordered by President Trump, promising until he sees real peace efforts from its leaders. The freeze impacts over $1 billion in arms and ammunition, with criticism from Ukrainian lawmakers for aligning with Russia. Soldiers express frustration but remain determined, while European leaders plan to boost defense capabilities to fill potential gaps left by U.S. withdrawal.
On March 3, reports surfaced that U.S. President Donald Trump ordered a suspension of military aid to Ukraine, prompting shock and dismay among Ukrainian officials. Volodymyr Dubovyk, the head of Odesa National University’s Center for International Studies, expressed that this development undermines U.S. foreign policy’s credibility. Although neither Washington nor Kyiv have confirmed the aid freeze, it aligns with reports from Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, suggesting Ukrainian-Polish border confirmations.
This decision significantly escalates pressure on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, particularly following a previous contentious meeting with Trump, which cast doubt on U.S. support. It also coincides with a canceled mineral deal between the United States and Ukraine. Lawmaker Oleksandr Merezhko criticized Trump’s tactics, saying, “To stop military aid to Ukraine right now means to help Russia kill Ukrainians with impunity.”
Trump’s earlier promise to resolve the war swiftly evolved from a 24-hour commitment to a 100-day period. Initially supportive of Ukraine during his first week in office, Trump’s stance began to shift after a call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, leading to an increasingly hostile U.S. attitude toward Zelensky. This change was echoed by some Republican lawmakers calling for his resignation and Trump’s derogatory remarks about Zelensky’s leadership.
Yaroslav Yurchyshyn, a member of Ukraine’s Holos (Voice) party, indicated that Trump’s recent actions betray Ukraine’s interests to achieve peace rapidly. “Their goal is peace at any cost. But for Ukraine, such an option is not acceptable,” he stated. The suspension of U.S. military aid, amounting to over $1 billion, takes effect immediately, affecting weapons already in transit and waiting for transfer in Poland.
Amidst rising frustration, Ukrainian soldiers like ‘Bart,’ a Special Operations Forces sniper, voiced a sense of betrayal, saying, “America has sided with Russia, North Korea, and Iran,” while asserting that the U.S. must fulfill its role in protecting democracy. Nevertheless, some soldiers maintain confidence in their fighting capabilities, with Fuko from the 66th Prince Mstyslav Khorobyi Brigade noting, “We are ready to keep going as long as it takes.” They emphasize the ongoing support from European allies as vital.
While European support remains uncertain, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the ReArm Europe plan to enhance the EU’s defense capabilities. This plan could mobilize approximately 800 billion euros, indicating Europe’s commitment to assume responsibility during this crisis. Ukraine’s primary defense concern is air support, which still hinges on U.S. assistance, so alternatives must be urgently sought.
The U.S. freeze on military aid to Ukraine represents a significant shift in American foreign policy, raising concerns among Ukrainian officials who feel abandoned in their efforts against Russian aggression. Despite the challenges posed by this aid freeze, Ukrainian soldiers express resilience and hope for European support. As Europe prepares to strengthen its defense capabilities, Ukraine must address immediate concerns about air defense in light of U.S. withdrawal, highlighting the urgent need for collaborative efforts to sustain its defense capabilities.
Original Source: kyivindependent.com
