Ukraine remains committed to sustaining ties with the US despite aid suspension

Ukraine reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining strong ties with the United States on Tuesday, despite President Donald Trump's decision to suspend US military aid following a public dispute with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.  

Trump’s unexpected move raised concerns in Ukraine and across Europe that the US was shifting away from its allies while leaning towards Moscow. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmygal emphasized Ukraine’s determination to continue cooperation with the US, calling it an "important partner" and stressing the necessity of preserving the relationship. He also highlighted the vital role of US and Western security guarantees for both Ukraine and Europe and reiterated Kyiv’s readiness to sign a strategic minerals extraction deal requested by Trump.  

Trump’s decision sent shockwaves across Ukraine but was welcomed by Moscow. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that the halt in US military supplies could push Kyiv towards a peace process, describing it as a potential contribution to ending the conflict. Meanwhile, the European Union, excluded from US-Russian peace talks, intensified efforts to bolster Ukraine’s defense. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen unveiled a plan to mobilize approximately $840 billion to support Ukraine with immediate military aid.  

Poland’s government criticized the US decision, noting it was made without consulting NATO allies and had already impacted weapon and aid logistics at its hub for Ukraine. Reports indicated that the suspension affected hundreds of millions of dollars in military supplies that were en route to Ukraine. Many Ukrainians expressed anger and frustration, seeing the aid suspension as a betrayal. A financial assistant in Kyiv described it as a "stab in the back," while an army volunteer accused Trump of pushing for Ukraine’s surrender.  

Despite the aid halt, Ukraine’s prime minister vowed that the country would persevere. Ukrainian officials confirmed ongoing discussions with European partners to explore alternative support options. Zelensky, who has not yet commented on the aid suspension, had traveled to Washington last week for a multi-billion-dollar minerals deal, which was ultimately not signed following his tense exchange with Trump and US Vice President JD Vance.  

As Ukraine seeks robust security guarantees to end the war, and with its NATO bid facing US opposition, European nations are considering alternative measures. Britain and France are exploring a proposal for a temporary Ukraine-Russia truce, which could include security provisions backed by Western forces.