Donald Trump’s latest remarks about Ukraine have stirred concern but not yet panic, as seasoned observers suggest Washington may not fully retreat from supporting Kyiv. Despite fiery rhetoric and ambiguous signalling, some experts believe the United States will remain involved, albeit with reduced commitment.
Suriya Jayanti, former US diplomat to Ukraine during Trump’s first term and current CEO of a Ukrainian nuclear company, told Times Radio that Ukraine should “hold its breath” as Trump’s policy positions are often fluid. “With President Trump, nothing is ever final. Everything is negotiable,” she noted. Jayanti suggested that further aid, possibly less than before, could still be expected.
While the United States has announced it will step back from mediating peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, senior figures like Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that America remains ready to support peace efforts if credible movement occurs. US State Department spokesperson Tim Pigott also pointed to a recent critical minerals agreement with Ukraine, emphasising enduring economic cooperation.
The minerals deal, which awaits ratification in Ukraine’s parliament, could unlock major bilateral investment. For Ukraine, battered by Russian aggression, this offers vital reconstruction support. In total, the US has provided approximately $120 billion (around £95.7 billion) in aid since 2022, though about 70 percent of this funding has remained within the US economy, mostly paid to American firms.
Jayanti dismissed any claim that the United States was “throwing in the towel.” She said recent frustration expressed by Washington should be seen as aimed at both Kyiv and the Kremlin. She warned against appeasement, recalling how concessions like the Nord Stream 2 pipeline emboldened the Russian dictator’s aggression, culminating in the full invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Though Ukraine remains reliant on US assistance, Jayanti underscored the significant role played by the European Union. She expressed hope that European states would fill any gaps left by a potential US pullback. A stronger Russia, she noted, is an alarming prospect for all of Europe.
This week, the Trump administration approved a fresh military aid package worth $50 million (approx. £39.8 million), its first since Trump’s renewed influence became evident. Jayanti sees this as a potential pivot point. Despite the uncertainties, she remains cautiously optimistic, believing further support may still come as Trump adjusts course for political gain.
