European countries have reportedly increased their military, financial, and humanitarian support for Ukraine in response to a call for greater responsibility from former US President Donald Trump.
According to data from the Kiel Institute cited by Axios, by 2025, European countries responded to former President Donald Trump's call for greater responsibility in supporting Ukraine, leading to a significant increase in military aid by 67% and financial and humanitarian aid by 59%. At the same time, US support dropped off last year as Trump pressured NATO allies to purchase American weaponry and finance Ukraine's defense independently.
High-ranking European officials assert that this new dynamic allows them to negotiate more effectively, especially as US negotiators have been pushing Ukraine to conclude the ongoing conflict for several months. This change positions Europe as a more pivotal player in the discussions surrounding Ukraine, particularly during significant anniversaries like the Maidan revolution, where Ukraine's President Zelenskyy has taken a firm stance against withdrawing troops from the Donbas region.
Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski emphasized that the financial contributions from Europe give them a legitimate voice in negotiations and outcomes, contrasting with the perception that the US profits from the war. Axios noted that similar sentiments were echoed by German Chancellor Friedrich, highlighting a broader shift in European perspective regarding their role and responsibilities in the Ukraine support efforts.
