Context:

Ukraine is facing an unprecedented drought in military aid from the United States, with a 120-day gap since the last aid package, surpassing the previous 119-day hold by Speaker Mike Johnson. During President Biden's term, continuous military support was provided, but the recent shift in administration has led to a halt, with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's office not addressing the allocation of the remaining $3.85 billion authorized for Ukraine. In February, President Trump proposed a transactional agreement requiring Ukraine to share critical minerals for further military aid, which Ukrainian President Zelensky encountered with hostility during a visit to the White House. Despite a brief private conversation between Trump and Zelensky in Rome, there is no indication of imminent aid, forcing Ukraine to increasingly rely on European allies and its own defense capabilities. The situation highlights the fragile state of U.S.-Ukraine relations, which were once robust but now seem halted, leaving Ukraine in a vulnerable position against Russian aggression.

Dive Deeper:

• The 120-day gap in U.S. military aid to Ukraine is the longest since Speaker Mike Johnson's 119-day hold, during which Ukraine nearly ran out of ammunition, prompting significant concern from the Biden administration and Congress.

• Under President Biden, the U.S. consistently provided Ukraine with advanced military support, including howitzers, guided rockets, and air-defense systems, ensuring a strong defense against Russian forces.

• After assuming office, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth promised transparency but has held only one Pentagon briefing, neglecting to address additional aid or utilize the authorized $3.85 billion for Ukraine.

• In February, President Trump conditioned future military aid on Ukraine sharing its critical minerals with the U.S., a proposal met with harsh words when President Zelensky visited the White House.

• The absence of new U.S. aid packages has pushed Ukraine to depend more on European allies and bolster its own defense industry, as there is no current indication of forthcoming American support.

• The prior strong U.S.-Ukraine relationship has been disrupted by recent political developments, leaving Ukraine in a precarious position amid ongoing Russian threats.

• Despite a private discussion between Trump and Zelensky in Rome, the strategic partnership between the U.S. and Ukraine remains uncertain, with no clear path forward for renewed military assistance.