WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump has ordered a temporary suspension of U.S. aid to Ukraine, following a tense meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy last week.
A White House official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, stated that the administration is reassessing its financial support to Kyiv to ensure it aligns with efforts to secure a peace deal and end the ongoing war sparked by Russia’s full-scale invasion. The official emphasized that the U.S. wants Ukraine to demonstrate a firm commitment to achieving a resolution before additional aid is disbursed.
Diplomatic Breakdown in the Oval Office
The U.S. and Ukraine had been on track to finalize an economic agreement during Zelenskyy’s visit, granting the U.S. access to Ukraine’s critical mineral resources. The White House viewed the deal as a long-term strategy to strengthen bilateral relations while also offsetting the more than $180 billion in aid the U.S. has provided Ukraine since the conflict began.
However, the negotiations unraveled during Oval Office discussions, which became heated and led to White House officials abruptly requesting Zelenskyy and his delegation to leave.
Political Reactions and Fallout
Despite the breakdown in talks, Trump suggested on Monday that the proposed economic deal remains on the table, calling it “a great deal” and indicating he would address it in his upcoming speech before a joint session of Congress.
The decision to pause aid to Ukraine has sparked significant backlash on Capitol Hill. Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-Pa.), co-chair of the Congressional EU Caucus, condemned the move as “reckless, indefensible, and a direct threat to our national security.”
“This aid was approved on a bipartisan basis—Republicans and Democrats alike understand that standing with Ukraine is standing for democracy and against Putin’s aggression,” Boyle stated. “Yet, Trump, who has consistently praised Putin and undermined our allies, is now playing political games with vital military assistance.”
European Allies Seek Alternative Support
As the U.S. wavers in its commitment, Zelenskyy traveled to London for discussions with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other European leaders, seeking stronger continental support amid uncertainty over American assistance.
When asked about a potential European-led peace initiative, Zelenskyy remained cautious. “We are discussing initial steps, but nothing has been finalized yet,” he said. “A just, honest, and most importantly, sustainable peace remains a distant goal.”
Trump Criticizes Zelenskyy’s Stance on the War
Later on Monday, Trump publicly rebuked Zelenskyy’s remarks regarding the ongoing war, taking to his Truth Social platform to express his frustration.
“This is the worst statement Zelenskyy could have made, and America will not tolerate it much longer,” Trump wrote. “He doesn’t want peace as long as he has America’s backing. Meanwhile, European leaders have admitted they cannot handle this without the U.S.—not exactly a strong message against Russia.”
The White House has reportedly urged Zelenskyy to consider potential concessions to facilitate peace talks. However, the Ukrainian leader has firmly resisted any compromises without securing firm security guarantees from Washington—a stance that has further complicated diplomatic efforts.