Trump halts US military aid to Ukraine, pushing for war’s end

WASHINGTON,— U.S. President Donald Trump has ordered a temporary halt to U.S. military assistance to Ukraine, aiming to press President Volodymyr Zelensky into peace negotiations with Russia.

This decision follows a contentious Oval Office meeting where Trump and Vice President JD Vance criticized Zelensky for perceived ingratitude regarding the over $180 billion in U.S. military aid provided since Russia’s invasion three years ago.

A senior White House official stated that the administration is reviewing the aid to ensure it fosters a peaceful resolution. The suspension will remain until Ukraine demonstrates a commitment to peace talks with Russia.

This move mirrors a previous incident five years ago when Trump withheld congressionally approved aid to pressure Zelensky into investigating then-presidential candidate Joe Biden, leading to Trump’s first impeachment.

During his 2024 campaign, Trump promised a swift end to the Ukraine conflict, asserting he could achieve peace within a day. His frustration with Zelensky has grown, while he maintains confidence in Russian President Vladimir Putin’s ability to uphold a potential truce.

On Monday, Trump rebuked Zelensky for suggesting that peace remains distant, labeling the comment as unacceptable. In response, Zelensky emphasized the urgency of substantive diplomacy to halt the war, highlighting the devastation inflicted on Ukrainian cities and the loss of lives.

The aid suspension also affects a proposed agreement granting the U.S. access to Ukraine’s critical minerals, intended to offset previous aid and strengthen bilateral relations. This deal was postponed following the unsuccessful Oval Office meeting.

Vice President Vance criticized European allies for not urging Zelensky toward a resolution, questioning the sustainability of prolonged conflict without clear support.

Democratic lawmakers condemned the aid pause. Representative Brendan Boyle of Pennsylvania described it as reckless and a threat to national security, noting bipartisan congressional support for Ukraine. Representative Dan Goldman likened the move to extortion, recalling Trump’s earlier withholding of aid.

National Security Adviser Mike Waltz expressed doubts about Zelensky’s willingness to pursue peace, suggesting his stance could hinder future U.S. relations.

Experts like Angela Stent from the Brookings Institution believe Putin may exploit these tensions, anticipating increased divisions within the West over time.

Despite the aid freeze, Trump remains optimistic about finalizing the minerals agreement, indicating plans to address it in an upcoming congressional session. Representative Brian Fitzpatrick, co-chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, engaged in discussions with Zelensky’s chief of staff to revive the deal, expressing confidence in its imminent approval.

Key Republican senators advocate for restoring U.S.-Ukraine relations, emphasizing the need for economically beneficial agreements that serve mutual interests.

Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina called for de-escalation and the pursuit of advantageous deals, while Senator Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma urged Zelensky to adopt a realistic approach to peace negotiations.

(With files from AP)