In brief
In recent negotiations in Oslo, U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, only to highlight deep fissures between the two leaders. Zelensky’s public post praised partners while questioning U.S. support. Trump’s recent rhetoric and policy moves – including sanction waivers and alleged restriction of intelligence sharing – have become the flashpoint. Analysts warn that the fragile partnership risks further erosion and could impact Ukraine’s military aid and broader strategic stability.
The hug offered by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff to Volodymyr Zelensky ahead of talks in Oslo is unlikely to erase doubts about the direction of U.S. policy toward Ukraine.
Zelensky posted a video after the meeting, saying Ukraine is working for peace and thanking partners for their support.
The question remains whether the Ukrainian leader still views Donald Trump as a supportive ally after a series of confrontations that began last year.
In rhetoric, the past ten days have revealed a rupture as deep as any seen before. Trump’s recent comments, such as "Zelensky does not know what he is talking about," have added strain.
Trump’s approach, characterised by abrupt policy shifts, continues to unsettle Washington‑Kyiv relations. Analysts note that a recent waiver of Russia sanctions and reports of reduced intelligence sharing raise concerns about the future of U.S. assistance.
“Ukraine is working for peace. I thank our partners for their support!”
Reports also point to a slowdown in the flow of Patriot missiles and restrictions on the use of Starlink communications by Ukrainian forces, further tightening the stranglehold of U.S. policy on the frontlines.
While talks in Oslo have generated optimism about aligning early warning systems and future aid, the underlying tension between Washington and Kyiv remains intense.
Zelensky’s optimism about resolving cyber‑intelligence gaps and the arrival of new missiles is tempered by a clear recognition that the rift with Donald Trump could widen, threatening Ukraine’s security framework.
