U.S. President Donald Trump has once again criticised Ukraine, suggesting that he is uncertain whether Kyiv truly seeks a peace agreement with Russia.
His remarks come just hours after issuing a social media post that contained threats directed at Russia. In a conversation with journalists, Trump stated that he had halted military aid to Ukraine in the belief that doing so would help bring an end to the conflict.
“I need to know that they want to make a deal,” Trump emphasised, adding that he finds dealing with Russia easier than handling Ukraine. He reiterated his trust in Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying, “I think we are fine with Russia, but right now they are going after Ukraine like crazy. And frankly, it’s getting harder for me to deal with Ukraine – they have no leverage.”
These statements followed a journalist’s question about whether Trump intended to reconsider his decision on halting military assistance to Ukraine, especially after Russia’s large-scale missile strikes on Ukrainian cities and towns. Instead of addressing the escalation, Trump asserted that Putin was acting in a manner that any leader would under similar circumstances.
“I think he wants this to end and be resolved,” Trump stated, referring to Putin’s position. “I think he’s hitting them harder than before, and I believe anyone in his place would do the same now.”
Strategic Logic or Political Justification?
At first glance, Trump’s comments may appear contradictory. On the one hand, he claims that Putin wants the war to end, while on the other, he acknowledges that Russia is intensifying its attacks.
However, the underlying logic becomes clear when considering Trump’s broader stance: his belief that Ukraine should capitulate to Russian demands in order to reach a settlement.
By stopping military aid and intelligence-sharing, Trump’s strategy appears designed to push Kyiv towards an unfavourable peace deal without making the United States directly responsible for Ukraine’s potential surrender.
Trump has repeatedly insisted that his priority is for Ukraine to reimburse the U.S. for the military aid it has already received, frequently mentioning a supposed $350 billion sum.
At the same time, he claims that he wants to prevent further loss of life. However, his decision to cut off military support contradicts this assertion, as it comes at a time when Russia has escalated its attacks, causing civilian casualties.
The argument that withholding aid will lead to peace fails to account for the reality on the ground. Ukraine’s military dependence on Western support is a key factor in maintaining its defence against Russian aggression. The cessation of U.S. assistance weakens Ukraine’s ability to resist, making it more vulnerable to further attacks.
A Questionable Balancing Act
Trump’s simultaneous criticism of Ukraine and threats of sanctions against Russia suggest an attempt to create a balance between the two sides, at least from his perspective.
However, this approach is problematic given the nature of the conflict. While he warns Russia of potential sanctions, experts note that Washington’s ability to exert further economic pressure on Moscow is limited.
The previous administration under Joe Biden had already exhausted most meaningful sanctions measures, targeting Russia’s energy exports and financial institutions. As a result, Trump’s threats may not carry significant weight in Moscow.
Meanwhile, Trump’s policy shift directly affects Ukraine’s capacity to defend itself. The decision to cut military aid does not harm Kyiv’s leadership or armed forces alone; it disproportionately impacts civilians who are bearing the brunt of Russia’s intensified airstrikes.
By halting intelligence-sharing and weapons deliveries, Trump’s administration risks enabling further Russian offensives, making Ukraine’s position even more precarious.
The Wider Implications for U.S. Foreign Policy
Trump’s rhetoric and actions suggest a shift towards a transactional foreign policy approach, one that prioritises perceived economic gains over strategic alliances and security commitments. His trust in Putin and scepticism towards Ukraine indicate a preference for engagement with authoritarian leaders, even at the expense of democratic allies.
While Trump’s administration has yet to implement any new significant sanctions on Russia, his statements reinforce a pattern of unpredictability in U.S. foreign policy.
The lack of a coherent stance on the war in Ukraine raises concerns among Western allies about Washington’s long-term reliability. If Trump continues along this trajectory, it could weaken transatlantic unity, embolden Russia, and reshape global power dynamics.
Read also:
Trump Administration Restricts Satellite Data Access for Ukraine
