Washington: The United States has paused intelligence sharing with Ukraine, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz confirmed on Wednesday. The move has deepened concerns over Washington’s commitment to Kyiv amid ongoing tensions in the war with Russia.
“We have taken a step back,” Waltz told, adding that the Trump administration is reassessing “all aspects” of its relationship with Ukraine. The move follows a suspension of military aid earlier this week, further straining ties between the two nations.
The intelligence freeze comes just days after a tense Oval Office meeting between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, during which the Ukrainian leader was abruptly asked to leave. Trump has long criticized US military aid to Ukraine, citing high costs and demands for European allies to do more.
CIA Director John Ratcliffe confirmed the intelligence pause, stating that Trump questioned Zelensky’s commitment to the peace process and wanted to pressure Ukraine into negotiations.
The intelligence halt could significantly impact Ukraine’s war effort, as US surveillance has been crucial in tracking Russian troop movements and guiding missile strikes.
Despite the pause, Waltz hinted that aid and intelligence sharing could resume soon, depending on diplomatic progress.
“If we can advance negotiations, the president will reconsider lifting this pause,” Waltz said.
For now, Ukraine faces an uncertain future- without the crucial US intelligence that has helped shape its defense strategy since 2022.
