Zelensky Seeks to Mend Ties with Trump Amid Ukraine Aid Suspension
KYIV:
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed his willingness to work under Donald Trump’s leadership to secure a lasting peace in Ukraine, following the sudden suspension of US military aid.
Key Developments:
-
Zelensky’s Call for a Truce
- The Ukrainian leader called for a “truce in the sea and sky” as a first step toward ending the three-year war.
- He acknowledged the White House meeting with Trump last week “did not go as planned” but stressed the need to “make things right.”
-
Trump’s Decision to Halt Military Aid
- Trump’s move to freeze military support has shocked Kyiv and raised concerns across Europe about America’s shifting stance toward Ukraine.
- Moscow welcomed the decision, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov calling it a “solution that could push Kyiv toward peace negotiations.”
-
European Union Steps Up Support
- EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen unveiled an 800-billion-euro defense plan to fill the funding gap left by the US withdrawal.
- An emergency EU summit is scheduled for Thursday to coordinate joint support for Ukraine.
-
Public and Political Reaction in Ukraine
- Ordinary Ukrainians have reacted with shock and anger, with many viewing Trump’s decision as a “stab in the back.”
- Ukrainian officials are exploring alternative funding sources, engaging in talks with European allies while keeping communication channels open with Washington.
With the Kyiv-Washington alliance strained, Ukraine now faces mounting pressure to negotiate with Moscow while looking to Europe for alternative military support. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Ukraine can maintain its war effort or pursue a diplomatic resolution.
