REGRETTABLE!! Zelenskyy Seeks Peace with Trump Amid U.S. Aid Pause in Ukraine War

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called his recent Oval Office clash with U.S. President Donald Trump “regrettable” in a social media post on X, expressing readiness to collaborate under Trump’s leadership for lasting peace. The statement followed a White House announcement pausing critical military aid to Ukraine amid its defense against Russia’s invasion, which began in February 2022. Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine’s willingness to negotiate peace swiftly and sign a deal with the U.S. on rare-earth minerals and security, aiming to mend ties after a tense Friday meeting where Trump criticized Zelenskyy’s commitment to peace.

The U.S. aid pause, intended to ensure Ukraine pursues negotiations, has sparked alarm in Kyiv, though its immediate battlefield impact is limited. Ukrainian forces have slowed Russian advances along the 1,000-kilometer front line, particularly in Donetsk, despite Russia’s costly but inconclusive onslaught. Ukraine relies heavily on U.S. support—Patriot systems and intelligence have been vital—making the suspension a blow felt from Poland’s aid hub to the front lines. Soldiers expressed frustration, recalling a 2024 aid delay that enabled Russia’s capture of Avdiivka, while civilians and lawmakers warned of rising casualties without air defenses.

Trump, addressing Congress later Tuesday, has pushed for a quick ceasefire, raising fears among Ukraine and its allies of a Russia-favored deal. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal insisted on security guarantees and rejected territorial concessions, with Russia controlling nearly 20% of Ukraine. A White House official tied the aid pause to Trump’s demand for Ukraine’s negotiation commitment.

Russia welcomed the U.S. move, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov suggesting it could hasten peace, while a Russian lawmaker predicted Ukraine’s ammo reserves would dwindle within months. European allies, including the EU and UK, reaffirmed support, with the EU proposing an $841 billion defense plan and Britain vowing to secure a fair peace. Analysts warned the U.S. shift might embolden Russia to demand more concessions, like Ukrainian neutrality, complicating talks as Zelenskyy balances peace efforts with sovereignty.