Trump blocks military aid to Ukraine after quarrel with Zelensky: the situation

The US stops sending military supplies to Ukraine, possibly affecting Kiev’s operations. The decision follows a heated confrontation between Trump and Zelensky

US President Donald Trump has announced a halt to military aid to Ukraine, following President Volodymyr Zelensky’s refusal to agree to an immediate ceasefire with Russia. The move comes at a crucial time for Kiev’s military operations, which has so far benefited from a steady flow of arms and logistical support from the US under Joe Biden’s administration. The withdrawal of assistance represents a significant turning point in relations between Washington and Kiev and risks undermining Ukraine’s ability to counter Russian forces.

Over the past three years, the US has provided a total of USD 65.9 billion in military assistance to Ukraine, covering a broad spectrum of armaments and equipment. According to the State Department, updated to 20 January 2025, Washington sent Kiev three Patriot surface-to-air missile batteries and 12 Nasam defence systems, as well as thousands of anti-aircraft missiles, including more than 3,000 Stingers. The aid also included sophisticated air surveillance radars and equipment to bolster Ukrainian defences.

US support enabled Kiev to resist Russian offensives, with the Pentagon delivering over 200 155mm howitzers, supported by three million artillery shells, and more than 40 Himars, rocket launchers capable of hitting strategic targets. In particular, the Javelin missiles, delivered in more than 10,000 units, have become a symbol of Ukrainian resistance against the Russian invasion. In addition to these, 120 thousand anti-tank weapons and more than 500 million small arms rounds were also sent.

Despite the huge amount of weapons supplied, the Pentagon rejected requests to deliver US fighters to Kiev. However, Washington approved sending Soviet-designed Mi-17 military helicopters and, after intense discussions, agreed to the delivery of 31 Abrams tanks, among the most advanced in the world, as well as 45 T-72B tanks.

In addition, the US provided a wide range of military vehicles, including 300 Bradley fighting vehicles and over 5,000 Humvees, along with 300 armoured ambulances and coastal defence patrol boats. The aid also included satellite communication systems, night vision goggles and over 100 thousand bulletproof vests for the Ukrainian armed forces.

All this aid is part of the support package approved by the Biden administration until 20 January 2025, shortly before the handover to Trump. Since the new president took office, the US has continued to send approved critical munitions, but the recent freeze on aid marks a clear break from the previous line, leaving Kiev in a vulnerable position.