Trump halts military aid to Ukraine, Kyiv calls it blackmail
Donald Trump has announced the suspension of military aid to Ukraine, causing concern in Kyiv. "It's nothing short of cold-blooded blackmail," a senior Ukrainian official told "Bild".
A White House representative confirmed in a statement to the media that President Donald Trump has halted all military aid to Ukraine, "to ensure that it contributes to the resolution" of the conflict.
The President has made it clear that he is focused on peace. We need our partners to be committed to this goal as well. We are suspending and reviewing our assistance to ensure it contributes to the resolution, stated the White House representative.
Trump's decision aims to pressure President Volodymyr Zelensky into agreeing to American terms of the agreement. This decision has caused concern in Kyiv and among Ukrainian soldiers on the front line.
"It's nothing short of cold-blooded blackmail," said a senior Ukrainian official to "Bild". "For now, there will be no direct consequences for us on the front line," he added.
Ukrainian soldiers, especially those fighting in Donbas, have anxiously received the news of the possible aid suspension. One soldier admitted that although the situation is difficult, they still have hope.
A soldier, speaking with Bild, admitted to being in shock but noted a sense of optimism remains. Recalling past challenges, he emphasized that even when they had only five rounds a day, they still managed to hold their position.
In European capitals, there is an understanding of Ukraine's difficult situation, but at the same time, pressure is exerted to find a solution with Trump. Zelensky, however, continues to demand security guarantees before agreeing to negotiations.
Intense diplomatic talks are ongoing in Kyiv with Washington and Brussels. Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal expressed readiness to sign a joint investment fund agreement with the USA.
Shmyhal stated that they are prepared to engage in discussions and travel to finalize the agreement, while awaiting a response from Washington.
Challenges for Zelensky
President Zelensky faces a tough choice. While most Ukrainians support his resistance to Trump's pressure, it is unclear how they will react to the eventual suspension of aid.
The underlying question remains, whether Trump truly wants to support Ukraine or is pursuing his own interests.
Trump may shock Ukraine with further announcements as early as this evening during his speech before Congress. But it is also possible that by his threats and withholding of aid, he will prompt Zelensky to give in, journalists from "Bild" point out.
