Trump focuses on Iran - Europe and Ukraine act without the US - Politico
Kyiv • UNN
Trump has focused on Iran, pushing Ukraine to the background. In response, the EU has allocated 90 billion euros in aid and is preparing its own defense autonomy.
U.S. President Donald Trump has focused his attention on the war with Iran, while the issue of Ukraine is fading into the background of Washington's policy. Against this backdrop, Europe and Ukraine are intensifying cooperation and preparing to act more independently. This is reported by Politico, according to UNN.
The U.S. Pivot Away from Ukraine
According to the publication, for almost two months now, the war in the Middle East has remained the top priority for the Trump administration. The Ukrainian direction has effectively lost weight in the White House.
Iran has clearly become the main focus
At the same time, European officials admit that the situation regarding negotiations on Ukraine has reached a deadlock and requires a new impulse.
Tension Between the U.S. and Europe
Trump's recent statements have only heightened tensions in transatlantic relations. In particular, he criticized the German leadership, spoke of a possible reduction of American troops in Europe, and held a phone conversation with Vladimir Putin regarding a brief truce without Ukraine's participation.
In Europe, such steps no longer cause shock, because, as Politico's interlocutors note, countries have begun to adapt to the new reality.
Europe Takes More Responsibility
Against this background, discussions have intensified in the EU regarding the creation of its own defense autonomy, including the possible formation of a European Defense Union.
The European Union also approved a financial aid package for Ukraine amounting to 90 billion euros after the decision was unblocked.
European countries are ramping up arms production, given the doubts regarding further supplies from the U.S.
Ukraine Seeks New Pillars
Ukraine is also gradually reorienting itself, reducing its dependence on Washington's support. In particular, Kyiv is more actively cooperating with European and Middle Eastern partners.
In addition, Ukraine is developing the export of military technologies, particularly in the field of drones, which is generating interest among allies.
Decline in Trust Toward the U.S.
At the same time, as Politico notes, Ukrainians' trust in U.S. support is declining. According to sociological data, only about 40% of Ukrainians expect further assistance from Washington.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has also begun to react more harshly to the statements of American politicians. In particular, he criticized U.S. Vice President JD Vance for his position on cutting aid to Ukraine.
A New Reality for Allies
European leaders are increasingly leaning toward the view that they must act independently, regardless of U.S. policy.
All of this together has only strengthened Europe's resolve to support Ukraine
At the same time, the disagreements between Washington and its allies appear to be deepening, which could significantly affect the further course of the war and the security architecture in Europe.