WSJ reveals how Trump took decision to halt aid to Ukraine

Donald Trump’s decision to freeze aid to Ukraine was reportedly supported by all his top advisers, and the US president made the move after hearing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy say the war could go on for a long time.

Source: The Wall Street Journal, as reported by European Pravda

Details: A senior official in Trump’s administration, speaking anonymously, said the US president’s decision to suspend aid to Ukraine was backed by all his top national security advisers following several meetings on the issue.

Trump apparently made the move out of frustration over Zelenskyy’s remark that the war could drag on, because he felt the need to show he is serious about pushing Ukraine towards negotiations.

"The Ukrainians didn’t think we were serious," the anonymous official stated.

The official added that Trump has not yet determined what would constitute sufficient proof of Ukraine’s willingness to engage in peace talks. It also remains unclear whether the signing of the minerals deal between Ukraine and the US would be sufficient to resume weapons deliveries.

The US announced a new minerals deal between the Ukrainian and US governments on 3 March.

Background:

• Donald Trump has reportedly ordered the suspension of all military aid to Ukraine until he sees Ukraine's leaders "demonstrate a good-faith commitment to peace".
• His decision also applies to weapons shipments that have already left US territory and are en route to the Ukrainian border.

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