Trump suspends Ukraine aid days after clash with Zelenskyy
What's the story
In a move that puts more pressure on Ukraine to hold peace talks with Russia, United States President Donald Trump has suspended military aid to the former.
The decision comes after a tense meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House.
A White House official said the suspension will continue until Ukraine's leaders demonstrate a commitment to peace.
Impact analysis
Aid suspension affects critical military equipment
The aid suspension impacts hundreds of millions of dollars worth of military equipment yet to be delivered to Ukraine. This includes critical munitions such as anti-tank weapons and artillery rounds as reported by the New York Times.
The move is viewed as part of Trump's strategy to quickly end the war that started with Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Diplomatic efforts
European allies explore diplomatic proposals for truce
European allies have voiced concerns over the change in US policy and are looking at diplomatic proposals for a truce.
The UK and France are mulling a one-month truce "in the air, at sea, and on energy infrastructure"—potentially backed by troops on the ground.
Zelenskyy maintains that security guarantees are critical for peace, pointing to the past failures that resulted in Russian aggression.
Potential developments
US considers easing sanctions on Russia
The Trump administration is also weighing relaxing sanctions on Russia as part of wider discussions to thaw relations with Moscow.
Despite the tensions, Trump hinted that possible US investment in Ukraine's mineral resources is still on the table.
The aid suspension is not indefinite and could be revoked if Ukraine shows a renewed commitment to negotiations.