US President Donald Trump has suspended military aid to Ukraine, sharply escalating pressure on Kyiv to agree to peace talks with Russia. A White House official confirmed the move on Monday, saying it was part of a broader review to ensure that US assistance contributes to a resolution of the war.
The decision follows a heated public confrontation between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Trump, who has been pushing for a swift end to the conflict, suggested that Zelensky should be “more appreciative” of US support and warned that the Ukrainian leader “won’t be around very long” without a ceasefire.
Congressional Backlash
Democrats quickly condemned the aid suspension, with Representative Gregory Meeks calling it “dangerous and unlawful.” He urged Republican lawmakers to join in demanding an immediate reversal of the decision. According to The New York Times, the freeze affects hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of military assistance already in transit to Ukraine.
Zelenskyy reiterated his desire to end the war “as soon as possible” but insisted that real peace requires firm security guarantees. He blamed the lack of such guarantees for Russia’s past aggressions, including the annexation of Crimea and the war in Donbas.
European Response
Amid uncertainty over US support, Britain and France have been exploring a proposal for a one-month Ukraine- Russia truce, including restrictions on air, sea, and energy infrastructure attacks. The plan, which could involve troops on the ground, remains in early discussions.
Zelensky, however, stated that a comprehensive peace deal remains “very, very far away.” His remarks further angered Trump, whose administration’s shifting stance on Ukraine has alarmed Washington’s allies and fueled concerns over a potential pivot toward Russia.
Escalating Tensions
On the battlefield, Ukraine reported casualties from a Russian missile strike on a military facility near Dnipro, with estimates of 30 to 40 soldiers killed and 90 wounded. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov accused Zelensky of lacking diplomatic skills and being unwilling to negotiate peace.
Vice President JD Vance expressed confidence that Zelensky would eventually agree to talks, though he acknowledged that “he isn’t there yet.” Meanwhile, Friedrich Merz, expected to be Germany’s next chancellor, described the White House clash as a “deliberate escalation” by Trump.
US and Russian officials have reportedly held discussions on ending the war, prompting anger from Kyiv and European leaders who fear being sidelined in negotiations that could shape Ukraine’s future.
