Zelensky says multiple projects paused due to US freezing aid
2 Min Read
The Ukrainian leader assured citizens that his administration would prioritize the most urgent needs.
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Demonstrators hold Ukrainian flags during a protest against the war outside the Russian embassy in Lisbon, Thursday, July 11, 2024 (AP)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Tuesday that his government would step in to address urgent funding gaps left by the recent suspension of US foreign aid, which has disrupted numerous humanitarian initiatives across the country.
The decision by US President Donald Trump's administration to freeze nearly all foreign assistance last week has impacted several programs in Ukraine, including those supporting children, veterans, and local media. The move also affects projects aimed at protecting critical infrastructure.
"Today I instructed government officials to report on those US support programs that are currently suspended. These are humanitarian programs," Zelensky said in his evening address.
The Ukrainian leader assured citizens that his administration would prioritize the most urgent needs. "There are many projects. We will determine which of them are critical and need solutions now. We can provide part of this funding through our public finances," he stated.
Zelensky noted that the government would focus on programs that directly benefit vulnerable groups and the country’s recovery efforts. "We will definitely support the priority items, those that concern Ukrainian children, our veterans, and programs to protect our infrastructure," he added.
Impacts of the aid freeze
The aid suspension, which is part of a 90-day review ordered by the Trump administration, has already led to the closure of key services.
For example, the Veteran Hub, an organization that offers support to veterans, was forced to shut down its center in Vinnytsia and discontinue its support hotline due to a lack of funding.
Zelensky’s announcement comes amid growing scrutiny from international donors.
While the freeze has not affected US military assistance to Ukraine, concerns persist about how funds are allocated and managed.
A Pentagon audit recently revealed that $1.1 billion in US military aid was poorly accounted for, with some funds reportedly spent on unrelated projects in Europe.
Read more: Trump admin halts global supply of lifesaving HIV, malaria drugs
