The White House has announced a pause on all military aid to Ukraine just days after a tense Oval Office meeting between President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The decision follows Zelenskyy’s statement that a peace agreement to end the war remains a distant possibility. This development has drawn a strong response from President Trump.

“I just think he should be more appreciative,” Trump stated. “This country has stood by Ukraine through thick and thin. If he thinks the war will drag on for a long time, he better not be right about that. My priority is stopping the deaths of thousands of young people every week.”

Florida Congressman Brian Mast, a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, weighed in on the decision, stating that Trump’s approach is pushing European nations to take greater responsibility in aiding Ukraine. He pointed out that recent actions by the European Union and individual countries, such as Germany and the United Kingdom, committing billions of dollars to defense, are direct results of the President’s firm stance.

“Without the President doing what he’s doing, you wouldn’t see Europe stepping up like this,” Mast explained. “Before, they were reluctant to increase their defense spending. Now, the EU has pledged $150 billion into a defense fund, Germany has committed $100 billion, and the UK has allocated $200 billion annually. This is a testament to Trump’s leadership and strategy.”

Mast, who met with Zelenskyy just a week before his White House visit, believes the Ukrainian leader must work harder to maintain the support he has received from the U.S. “He was given everything he asked for from the American people, but somehow managed to undermine the relationship,” Mast said. “Now, he needs to go back and fix it.”

In another move, the U.S. Secretary of State has halted cyber operations against Russia. According to Mast, this is a strategic decision by Trump, aimed at positioning the U.S. as a neutral mediator capable of negotiating a peace settlement. “By stepping back in this way, the administration is making sure they can engage both sides and broker a resolution,” he said.

When asked about the potential fall of Kyiv due to the slowdown in U.S. aid, Mast dismissed the concern, arguing that Europe must take greater ownership of the conflict. “America needs a strong Europe as a partner, one that can stand on its own,” he said. “Right now, Europe is spending more money on Russian oil and gas than they are on Ukraine’s defense. That needs to change, and President Trump is making it happen.”

Meanwhile, Trump has also made strong statements regarding hostages held by Hamas, insisting that they must be released immediately. Following his pressure, seven hostages have been brought to the White House. Mast noted that Trump is deeply moved by the suffering of those who have been kidnapped and tortured, and he is committed to ensuring the safe return of all American captives.

As the situation unfolds, Trump continues to emphasize strengthening America’s economy, national security, and global leadership. From cracking down on cartels to bringing jobs back to the U.S., his administration remains focused on putting America first while reshaping its role in international affairs.