Arab Response

The Trump Administration's latest demand – that Ukraine grant the US access to its critical minerals in exchange for aid – marks a dramatic shift in Washington's approach to the war.

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By treating the conflict as a transactional issue rather than a strategic battle against Russian aggression, President Donald Trump is signaling that his priority is not Ukraine's sovereignty but a swift resolution that aligns with his broader vision of reducing US entanglements abroad. This shift, coupled with recent diplomatic maneuvers, suggests Kyiv's position is becoming increasingly precarious. For years, Ukraine has depended on American support to resist Russia's invasion. Under previous administrations, this assistance was framed as part of a global commitment to defending democracy. Now, Kyiv is facing an administration that appears more interested in extracting economic benefits than in ensuring Ukraine's long-term security. The White House's frustration over Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskky's refusal to accept these terms highlights the growing pressure on Kyiv. The message is clear: Ukraine must comply or risk being abandoned. The most alarming sign of this policy shift is Ukraine's exclusion from key US-Russia negotiations. Washington's recent talks with Moscow in Riyadh, held without Ukrainian representation, raise concerns about whether Kyiv's interests are being sidelined. Further reinforcing this perception is the Trump Administration's refusal to back a UN resolution recognizing Russia as the aggressor, a move that would have been unthinkable under a previous US leadership.