Ukraine-US relations suspended, but no talk of stopping aid – MP

This was announced by the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Foreign Policy and Interparliamentary Cooperation, Oleksandr Merezhko, in a program on Radio Free Europe, as reported by Ukrinform.

“At the moment, we are seeing a certain pause. It is important to let emotions calm down a bit. Any crisis has two paths – either heating up emotions with statements, or looking for excuses. There are excuses even in this crisis,” Merezhko noted.

He also added that Donald Trump's upcoming official visit to the UK could have a diplomatic impact. Meetings with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the royal family could be an important bridge to improving relations between the US and Ukraine.

“Everyone understands that transatlantic unity must not be destroyed,” Merezhko emphasized.

Although some hints point to obvious pressure, Merezhko emphasized that there are no specific statements or confirmations about the cessation of aid.

“This may be part of Trump's strategic strategy to put pressure on President Zelensky and Ukraine. But there are no official statements about providing assistance,” the MP added.

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Merezhko believes that aid will continue because Trump understands the critical risks of cutting it off. He also suggested that Trump's rhetoric could be influenced by his advisers, the American public, and European allies.

“It could even be his voters, since he is a democratically elected president who takes into account the opinions of his voters. It could also be European partners. That is, we should look for any opportunities that could influence this. Public opinion in the US is of great importance, and Trump cannot ignore it,” the deputy emphasized.

As reported by Ukrinform, on February 28, the meeting between Presidents Zelensky and Trump in the White House was interrupted due to disputes over military facts and trust in agreements with Putin. As a result, the US-Ukraine mineral deal was not signed.