Donald Trump has conceded that Ukraine may not withstand the ongoing conflict with Russia, a statement that comes just days after the US halted military aid to Kyiv. The Trump administration recently suspended US military and intelligence support to Ukraine in an attempt to coerce it into accepting a peace deal.
This decision followed closely on the heels of Trump’s ill-fated meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House.
In a conversation with Fox host Maria Bartiromo on Sunday, Trump was questioned about his comfort level with the possibility of Ukraine’s downfall following his withdrawal of support. “Well it may not survive anyway. But you know, we have some weaknesses with Russia, it takes two,” responded Trump.
He added, “It was not gonna happen that war, and it happened so now we’re stuck with this mess.”
The cessation of all military aid encompasses US weapons already shipped via air and sea, as well as those stationed in Europe. NBC News reported today that Trump will not reinstate aid to Ukraine even if a deal on mineral resources is reached, reports the Irish Star.
He also expects a shift in Zelensky’s stance towards peace negotiations.
During the calamitous Oval Office meeting, the two leaders had planned to sign a rare minerals agreement, but this has since been indefinitely postponed. Zelensky labelled the meeting as “regrettable,” after both Trump and Vice President JD Vance accused him of being “disrespectful” and insufficiently appreciative of US support.
Trump also cast doubt on Zelensky’s dedication to securing a peace deal to conclude the ongoing conflict. Without US intelligence, Ukraine’s capacity to launch attacks within Russia and shield itself from bombardment is significantly diminished.
On Friday, Trump revealed that he was “strongly considering” imposing fresh sanctions and tariffs on Russia. He justified this potential action by stating it was “based on the fact that Russia is absolutely ‘pounding’ Ukraine on the battlefield right now.”
He further noted that these proposed sanctions could persist until a ceasefire is agreed upon by both parties.
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