Trump Administration “Fed Up” With Europe’s Ukraine Support as US Steps Back From War Effort: Report
Key Points:
- US Disengagement Under Trump
- The Trump administration is scaling back military and diplomatic support for Ukraine, signaling frustration with Europe’s continued backing of Kyiv.
- Recent moves include:
- Withdrawing troops from a key base in Rzeszów, Poland (a hub for Ukraine aid).
- Reducing involvement in the Ramstein Format (Ukraine Defense Contact Group).
- Imposing 10% tariffs on Ukrainian goods (while exempting Russian imports).
- Pentagon officials have reportedly questioned allies about their weapons shipments to Ukraine, marking a policy shift.
- European Pushback & Alternative Plans
- European leaders, led by the UK and France, are discussing a post-ceasefire “reassurance force” to deter Russia—but the US has not endorsed it, and Moscow opposes the idea.
- David Shimer (ex-Biden NSC official) urged Europe to:
- Ramp up arms deliveries to Ukraine.
- Fund Ukraine’s defense industry.
- Negotiate with Trump’s team for US-made air defense systems, possibly paid for with frozen Russian assets.
- Trump’s Stance & Uncertainty
- Trump has called the war “Biden’s war, not mine” and reportedly criticized Russia’s military strategy in Ukraine.
- Diplomatic sources say his aides are “fed up” with Europe’s Ukraine policy, but The Economist notes it’s “hard to distinguish signal from noise” in Trump’s chaotic administration.
Why It Matters:
- Ukraine’s Future: With the US stepping back, Europe may need to take the lead in military and financial support—raising questions about Kyiv’s long-term prospects.
- NATO Tensions: The rift highlights growing US-Europe divisions over Ukraine, with Trump’s team seemingly prioritizing economic measures (tariffs) over military aid.
What’s Next?
- Europe’s Dilemma: Can the EU sustain Ukraine’s defense without full US backing?
- Trump’s Plans: Will he push for a negotiated settlement—or further disengage?
