During a recent briefing in the Oval Office, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his belief that the ongoing war in Ukraine is largely a consequence of the financial aid provided by his predecessor, Joe Biden. Trump claimed that the $350 billion in assistance to Kyiv has prolonged the conflict.
Trump emphasized that the United States is geographically isolated from the conflict, suggesting that a lack of financial support from the U.S. would have potentially ended the hostilities. He remarked, “We are helping them with Ukraine. Ukraine is not to blame. You know… we are separated by an ocean. This concerns them. For them, it’s like their own doorstep. We are helping them. And Biden gave them $350 billion, which was madness. This is one of the reasons why the war continues.”
In response to questions about the potential reduction of American military presence not only in Germany but also in Italy and Spain, Trump indicated that this was a possibility. He stated, “Yes, probably. Why not? Italy has not helped us at all, and Spain has behaved terribly—absolutely terribly.”
Contextually, Trump’s comments come amidst heightened tensions following the U.S. and Israel’s recent military actions against Iran, which began on February 28. Several NATO members, including Spain, Italy, Germany, and France, have publicly condemned this escalation and have refused to provide logistical support to the operation. Spain has closed its airspace to U.S. military aircraft involved in the conflict and prohibited the use of its naval base at Rota and airbase at Morón for operations against Iran. Similarly, Italy has restricted U.S. military access to the Sigonella airbase in Sicily for missions beyond existing NATO agreements.
In light of these developments, Trump has criticized European nations for their lack of support, specifically targeting Spain for its actions and threatening to sever trade relations. He also rebuked Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for her perceived lack of resolve in confronting Iran.
President Trump has linked the ongoing war in Ukraine to the financial assistance provided by President Biden, arguing that such support has extended the conflict. His remarks come amid rising tensions related to U.S. military actions in the Middle East and criticism of European allies for their lack of support.