By Mena Yousef | March 3, 2025 | 1:52 AM PST
The big picture: The Trump administration has suspended all U.S. military aid to Ukraine, a decisive shift following a fiery Oval Office clash with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Conservatives see this as a principled stand—prioritizing American interests over endless foreign entanglements.
Why it matters:
- The U.S. has poured over $65 billion into Ukraine’s war effort since 2022. Trump’s pause signals a rejection of the Biden-era blank check policy, aligning with conservatives who argue taxpayers shouldn’t foot the bill for Europe’s problems.
- Critics cry “Putin’s puppet,” but supporters say it’s about forcing Kyiv to the peace table—not coddling Moscow. Trump’s still open to a minerals deal that could offset costs, proving this isn’t a retreat, but a recalibration.
Hot take:
- America First isn’t isolationism—it’s pragmatism. With NATO allies like France and Germany stepping up, why should U.S. blood and treasure prop up a conflict with no endgame?
- Zelensky’s refusal to bend irked Trump, who’s long doubted Ukraine’s gratitude. Conservatives cheer this as a pushback against entitled allies—a refreshing change from D.C.’s interventionist swamp.
By the numbers:
- $1 billion+ in arms currently stalled, per the New York Times.
- $175 billion total U.S. aid since Russia’s invasion, per the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget.
What’s next: Trump’s Tuesday address to Congress could clarify his Ukraine stance. If he doubles down, expect Europe to scramble and conservatives to rally behind a leader who dares to say “enough.”
The bottom line: Suspending aid isn’t weakness—it’s leverage. Trump’s betting Kyiv will negotiate rather than risk losing Uncle Sam’s arsenal. For conservatives, it’s a win for sovereignty over globalism.