Ukraine-U.S. relations on pause, but no talks of aid termination – MP

Oleksandr Merezhko, Head of the Ukrainian Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Policy and Interparliamentary Cooperation stated this speaking to Radio Free Europe, Ukrinform reports.

“Right now, we see a certain pause. It’s important to let emotions cool down. Every crisis has two paths — either escalating emotions with statements or looking for opportunities. There are opportunities even in this crisis,” Merezhko noted.

He also pointed out that Donald Trump’s upcoming state visit to the U.K. could play a diplomatic role. Meetings with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the royal family may serve as a political bridge to improve U.S.-Ukraine relations.

“Everyone understands that transatlantic solidarity must not be destroyed,” Merezhko stressed.

While some hints suggest political pressure, Merezhko emphasized that there are no concrete statements or confirmations of aid being halted.

“This may be part of Trump’s political strategy to pressure President Zelensky and Ukraine. But there are no official announcements about stopping aid,” the MP added.

Merezhko believes aid will continue, as Trump understands the political risks of cutting it off. He also suggested that Trump’s rhetoric could be influenced by his advisers, the American public, and European allies.

"It could even be his voters because he is a democratically elected president who takes his voters into account. It could also be European partners. That is, any opportunity that could influence this should be sought. Public opinion in the United States plays a huge role, and Trump cannot ignore it," the MP emphasized.

As reported by Ukrinform, on February 28, a White House meeting between Presidents Zelensky and Trump was cut short after disputes over war facts and trust in agreements with Putin. As a result, a U.S.-Ukraine minerals deal was not signed.