**US Aid to Ukraine Paused: A Blow to Kyiv and European Allies**
President Donald Trump’s decision to halt all US aid to Ukraine has left a bitter taste in the mouths of both Kyiv and European allies who have been lobbying for continued support. This is not the first time the US has withheld military aid, with Republicans blocking President Joe Biden‘s largest tranche of assistance in 2023.
**A Delicate Balance**
Ukraine managed to scrape by on existing stocks of ammunition thanks to European help. But when Congress approved a £60bn aid package in spring 2024, it was just in time for Ukraine to fend off a Russian offensive in Kharkiv. US weapons turned the tide of battle, but now their absence may be felt for months.
**European Help Not Enough**
While Europe has increased its production of artillery shells and now provides 60% of Ukraine’s aid, US military support remains crucial. A Western official described it as “the cream” in terms of quality weapons. Ukraine relies on sophisticated US air defence systems like Patriot batteries and NASAMS to protect its people and cities.
**Intelligence Sharing at Risk**
The absence of some aid may take time to filter down to the frontline, but there’s a more worrying immediate impact: intelligence sharing. No nation matches the US in space-based surveillance, intelligence gathering, and communications – not even commercial companies like Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite network.
**Equipment and Maintenance Concerns**
Will the US prevent European countries from sending their US-made equipment to Ukraine? Will they maintain control over maintenance of US-supplied gear? These questions hang in the balance as President Trump‘s decision may be more than just a pause. The hope among European allies is that it will only be a temporary setback for Ukraine, but without US support, survival becomes even harsher.