**US Pressure on Ukraine Sparks Global Concern**
U.S. President Donald Trump’s push for a quick end to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has shocked the global community. The U.S. has suspended all military aid to Ukraine, sparking fears in Ukraine and joy inside Russia.
Experts warn that this move could cause long-term harm to the US’ own interests. “Clearly, there will be different views on this,” said Ian Lesser, a distinguished fellow at the German Marshall Fund.
The Trump administration is pushing for Ukraine to sign a deal that would allow U.S. investors to profit from Ukraine’s natural resources. However, pivoting away from European defense is an “ill-considered choice” that would undermine American interests, according to Lesser.
**Reputational Harm and Erosion of Influence**
The US’ long-standing support for Europe has not been an act of charity, but a policy decision that benefits the country, Lesser pointed out. An insecure Europe has implications for the security of North America, he said.
Signs of disengagement from the U.S. on international security issues will embolden adversaries beyond Europe, according to Lesser. The South China Sea is a potential example of where tensions could worsen.
Europe’s confidence in American leadership is declining due to Trump’s approach. Charles Kupchan, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, said that Trump’s strategy has been “disastrous.”
**Western Alliance Weakened**
The weakening of the Western alliance will have far-reaching consequences, according to experts. Adversaries like Russia and China are benefiting from the US’ actions.
Kupchan described this as a “period of profound political dysfunction” for the U.S. He added that the damage to America’s reputation is very harmful and undermines U.S. influence.
**Our Adversaries Are ‘Salivating’**
A direct consequence of diminished U.S. influence is the weakening of the Western alliance that has kept America’s adversaries in check. “They don’t have to lift a finger,” Kupchan said.
The suspension of aid to Ukraine remains in place, despite Zelensky’s proposal for steps toward peace. Experts warn that more gut punches are expected in the coming weeks and months.
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