The United States and Ukraine agreed to resume security and intelligence assistance to Ukraine after talks in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday. The move comes after a tense week that threatened to strengthen Russia’s position on the battlefield. The two countries agreed to an “immediate, temporary 30-day ceasefire,” but any extension would be contingent on Russia’s acceptance, according to a joint statement.
The Future of the Ceasefire and Russia's Decision
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that “the ball is now in their court” regarding the future of the ceasefire, stressing that Russia’s decision will be decisive. In a joint statement released immediately after the talks, Ukraine and the US stated that in order for the ceasefire to be successful, Russia must also accept the conditions. Rubio also stated that Russia will evaluate the terms of the ceasefire “through multiple channels”. The US said it hopes that this ceasefire will be implemented as soon as possible.
Trump’s Harsh Methods and Aid Pause
Last week, President Donald Trump halted hundreds of millions of dollars in security aid to Ukraine and suspended intelligence sharing. Trump said Kiev was “not ready for peace.” The drastic move came after a controversial meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Oval Office. The U.S. move has raised concerns among officials in Europe, prompting discussions about how Ukraine’s ability to defend itself without U.S. aid would be affected.
Ukraine's Security Guarantees and Europe's Role
US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz said the talks were not limited to a ceasefire, but also included security guarantees and humanitarian aid for Ukraine. Kiev, after a previous ceasefire was broken by Russia, is demanding US military commitments for any peace deal. The US, despite increasing European military spending, has distanced itself from US military support, arguing that security guarantees should be provided by Europe.
Military Expenditures of European Countries and the Role of NATO
The US approach to security guarantees raises concerns that countries that are a key part of NATO will struggle to shoulder such responsibility, even as Europe increases its defense spending. Trump said last week that NATO countries cannot request aid unless they spend enough on defense. “If you’re not going to pay your bills, we’re not going to defend you,” Trump said, adding that he expects his allies to fulfill their defense obligations.
This decision to resume security and intelligence assistance between the US and Ukraine stands out as an important step in an environment where the war with Russia continues. However, whether the ceasefire will be long-term and Russia's stance will determine future developments. In addition, despite Europe increasing its military spending, the US's approach to Europe poses a big question mark in terms of the continent's security.
