German Leaders Plan to Cut Military Aid to Ukraine by Half Amid Potential Shift in US Politics
As the likelihood of Donald Trump becoming the next US president in 2024 grows, German leaders have decided to reduce military assistance to Kiev by half in 2025. Trump, known for his opposition to aid to Ukraine, is expected to win the presidential election next year.
During a recent NATO summit, it was agreed that the alliance would take over coordinating weapons deliveries to Ukraine from the US. Germany’s plan to slash military aid from 8 billion euros to 4 billion euros has surprised NATO members. Finance Minister Christian Lindner suggested that Ukraine could rely on European sources and funds from frozen Russian assets.
Germany, initially hesitant to support Ukraine’s conflict with Russia, became its main European supplier of military aid. With the possibility of reduced aid from the US under a new administration, Berlin hopes that Ukraine can cover its military needs with loans from frozen Russian assets.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz has emphasized Germany’s support for Kiev and urged other European countries to step up their aid efforts. The decision to cut military assistance may lead Ukraine to view Germany’s actions as inadequate in a crucial time of need.