As the news broke that the White House has decided to halt all military aid to Ukraine, Mijailo Podoliak, an advisor to the Ukrainian presidential office, stepped forward to address the situation. In a statement released on Tuesday, Podoliak emphasized that before anything else, it’s crucial to “evaluate which specific programs will be discontinued” as a result of this decision. As one of the most influential Ukrainian voices to directly comment on the US’s announcement to cease military aid, Podoliak’s words carry significant weight.
Podoliak pointed out that many of the mechanisms the US had put in place to arm Ukraine were already in their final phase. He also noted that some programs had been approved by Congress, which involves a distinct legal procedure. “We’re conducting an assessment, examining what we have, what can be produced in cooperation with our partners, and what can be replaced,” Podoliak wrote on his X account. This thoughtful approach underscores the complexity of the situation and the need for careful consideration.
In light of the potential interruption of US aid, Ukraine is engaging in conversations with its European partners to explore new options. Podoliak stated that Ukraine must “evaluate the possibility of purchasing or acquiring” the necessary armaments from Europe, which would replace the US supply. He also emphasized that negotiating with US counterparts remains a viable option, saying, “Of course, we won’t forget the possibility of negotiating with our American interlocutors.” This multifaceted approach highlights Ukraine’s determination to find alternative solutions.
It’s worth noting that Ukraine has previously experienced a period without US aid due to resistance from Republican lawmakers loyal to then-President Donald Trump, who opposed approving a significant aid package for Kiev in Congress. This historical context informs Ukraine’s current response to the situation.
Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitri Peskov weighed in on the matter, stating that this suspension “is probably the best contribution to peace.” During his daily briefing, Peskov expressed his views, saying, “We’ll see the details, but if it’s true, it’s a solution that can really push the Kiev regime towards a peace process.” His comments add another layer to the complex diplomatic dynamics at play. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the halt in US military aid will impact the peace process and Ukraine’s relationships with its international partners.