President Donald Trump has put a hold on all military aid to Ukraine, issuing an ultimatum to President Volodymyr Zelensky following a heated Oval Office meeting on Friday.
According to The New York Times, Trump had planned to meet with his senior advisors on Monday to reassess Ukraine aid, even as European nations discuss increasing their own support.
A White House official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, stated that Trump is focused on brokering a peace deal to end the war—now in its third year following Russia’s full-scale invasion. The official added that U.S. aid is currently “paused and under review” to ensure it contributes to a long-term solution.
Military Aid Halted After Tense White House Exchange
All military equipment not yet delivered to Ukraine has been put on hold, and future assistance is now uncertain. Trump has tasked Pete Hegseth with overseeing the aid freeze, the official said.
The fallout from Zelensky’s meeting with Trump and Vice President JD Vance has cast doubt on Ukraine’s continued military support. The discussion reportedly ended on a sour note, with Trump instructing Zelensky to leave the White House, canceling a planned lunch, a mineral deal signing, and a joint press conference.
Trump Defends His Ukraine Stance Amid Backlash
Following media criticism over his treatment of Zelensky, Trump defended his record on Ukraine, posting on Truth Social:
“The only President who gave none of Ukraine’s land to Putin’s Russia is President Donald J. Trump. Remember that when the weak and ineffective Democrats criticize, and the Fake News gladly spreads their lies!”
National Security Advisor Mike Waltz reinforced Trump’s stance during an interview on Fox News Channel’s America’s Newsroom Monday morning, warning that the days of unlimited U.S. support for Ukraine were over.
“The American people’s patience is not unlimited, their wallets are not unlimited, and our stockpiles and munitions are not unlimited,” Waltz said. “The time to talk is now.”
Waltz criticized Zelensky for failing to show a willingness to negotiate a peace deal with Russia, arguing that time is not on Ukraine’s side.
“Success looks like President Zelensky sitting down and discussing the terms of peace,” Waltz said. “What became clear in that meeting is that he’s not ready for peace at all.”
Zelensky’s Frustration and Abrupt Exit
During the Oval Office meeting, tensions escalated when Vance emphasized the need for Trump to engage diplomatically with Russia.
“What kind of diplomacy, JD, are you talking about? What do you mean?” Zelensky reportedly asked, after listing instances where Putin had violated past agreements.
Vance fired back:
“I’m talking about the kind of diplomacy that’s going to stop the destruction of your country, Mr. President,” he said, accusing Zelensky of disrespecting Trump by voicing opposition to a peace deal in front of American media.
After the confrontation, Trump abruptly ended the meeting and dismissed Zelensky from the White House, canceling scheduled events.
Later, Trump doubled down on his stance, stating on social media:
“He can come back when he is ready for peace.”
Zelensky’s Emergency Trip to London
Following the failed Washington talks, Zelensky made an emergency trip to London, where he met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other European leaders.
Starmer underscored the U.K.’s continued support, signaling a possible shift in Europe’s role in aiding Ukraine.
“The U.K. is prepared to back this with boots on the ground and planes in the air, together with others,” Starmer said. “Europe must do the heavy lifting, but to succeed, this effort must have strong U.S. backing.”
With U.S. aid in limbo, Zelensky now faces an uphill battle in securing military support as European leaders scramble to reassess their commitments.
