Ukraine could lose war if US cuts military aid, Zelenskyy says

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy issued a stark warning Tuesday, stating that Ukraine “will lose” its war against Russia if the United States cuts military funding to Kyiv. His comments, made during an interview with Fox News, highlight growing uncertainty about continued U.S. support as political divisions deepen in Washington.

“If they cut, we will — I think we will lose,” Zelenskyy said, emphasizing the critical role U.S. aid plays in Ukraine’s defense. “We will fight. We have our production, but it’s not enough to prevail. And I think it’s not enough to survive.”

The remarks come as President-elect Donald Trump, a staunch critic of President Joe Biden’s Ukraine policy, prepares to take office. Trump has repeatedly questioned the billions of dollars in military aid sent to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion in February 2022. He has vowed to end the war quickly but has not offered specifics on his proposed approach.

Trump’s allies this week sharply criticized Biden’s decision to permit Ukraine to use U.S.-supplied long-range missiles for strikes within Russia, labeling the move a dangerous escalation. This criticism adds to mounting pressure on Ukraine, which has grown increasingly concerned about maintaining a unified front with its Western allies.

During the interview, Zelenskyy underscored the importance of U.S.-Ukraine cooperation, calling unity “most important.” He expressed hope that Trump could leverage his influence over Russian President Vladimir Putin to bring the conflict to an end.

“[Trump] is much more stronger than Putin,” Zelenskyy stated. “Putin can be willing and end this war, but it also depends on the United States of America much more. Putin is weaker than the United States of America.”

Zelenskyy’s comments come as Russia consolidates gains on the battlefield, raising fears of a weakened position for Ukraine in any potential peace negotiations. While Ukraine remains committed to its resistance, the looming possibility of a reduction in U.S. support poses a significant challenge to its efforts to maintain territorial integrity.

With Washington’s policies at a critical crossroads, the outcome of the conflict may hinge on decisions made in the coming months, as U.S. leadership transitions and the global balance of power remains in flux.