US President Donald Trump has ordered the suspension of all military aid to Ukraine, increasing pressure on President Volodymyr Zelensky following a recent disagreement at the White House.
According to Bloomberg, an unnamed official from the US Department of Defense reported that the United States is suspending all current military aid to Ukraine until Trump decides that the Ukrainian leadership demonstrates “sincere commitment” to peace.
All stuck in ports and hubs
This decision affects the supply of all American military equipment that has not yet reached Ukraine, including weapons in transit on planes and ships or awaiting in transit zones in Poland. Trump has instructed Defense Secretary Mark Esper to carry out this pause.
It is currently unclear the exact amount of American aid that Trump’s directive pertains to. According to Bloomberg, at the time of Trump taking office, there was $3.85 billion left from the previous administration under the so-called Presidential Drawdown Authority to reduce American weapon stocks. It is unknown whether this amount will be used for Ukraine, especially considering that US weapon stocks are dwindling and in need of replenishment.
US suffers losses from Trump’s decision
The decision to suspend military aid goes beyond simply halting funding, as it jeopardizes aid that is already being provided or executed. This concerns the supply of critical ammunition, hundreds of guided missile systems, anti-tank weapons, and other means. Terminating existing contracts with the industry may require the US to compensate companies that have begun fulfilling orders.
The White House representative stated that President Trump is focused on achieving peace and expects partners to be committed to this goal. The suspension and review of aid are aimed at supporting conflict resolution. f
This move has raised concerns among European allies and lawmakers who are urging increased support for Ukraine in the absence of American assistance. The decision also aligns with Trump’s plans to strike a significant deal with Ukraine in the field of mineral resources.
What’s Next
Earlier, on February 28, during a joint briefing at the White House between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump, a dispute arose regarding the Russian-Ukrainian war. Trump claimed that Ukraine allegedly does not express gratitude for the aid provided and “shows disrespect,” adding: “Either you make a deal, or we walk out of it.” Following this, Zelensky prematurely left the White House, and the signing of the mineral agreement and joint press conference with Trump were canceled.
In response to these events, the Ukrainian Parliament published an address to President Donald Trump, Congress, and the American people on the evening of March 3. In the letter, the Parliament, on behalf of the Ukrainian people, thanked for the support and assistance from the U.S., welcomed Trump’s initiative to initiate a negotiated peace process, and emphasized the need for further development of strategic partnership with the U.S., particularly in the sphere of critical minerals research.
The suspension of military aid to Ukraine raises concerns about the country’s ability to withstand Russian aggression and may have serious consequences for security in the region. The international community is closely monitoring the situation and calls for continued support to Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty and territorial integrity.
