Verkhovna Rada calls suspension of US aid to other countries a challenge for Ukraine
US President Donald Trump's decision to suspend aid to other countries is a big challenge for Ukraine, Verkhovna Rada member Taras Tarasenko said on January 21.
"This challenge is very big for us, because it is 90 days [of suspension]," he said on the air of the Ukrainian edition of "Novosti.LIVE", broadcast on the YouTube channel.
At the same time, the MP wondered whether this measure would affect Kiev and in general the projects already operating now.
According to him, representatives of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the international non-profit organization IREX assured that there is funding for the next three months, and the 2024 arrangements will be in place.
Tarasenko added that an audit on assumption of office is required of every leader. He expressed hope that the audit initiated by Trump will show the effectiveness of spending by Kiev and American support will continue, added "Gazeta.Ru".
On the eve, January 20, Trump took the oath of office, becoming the 47th President of the United States. After the inauguration ceremony, he signed more than 200 decrees. One of these measures was the suspension of Washington's development aid to other countries for 90 days. During this period, payments must be suspended to evaluate the effectiveness of programs and compliance with US foreign policy.
In addition, Trump angered that the United States has spent $200 billion more on the Ukraine conflict than NATO countries and called on them to "even the score."
Western countries have stepped up military and financial support for Ukraine amid Russia's special operation to protect Donbass, which was announced by Russian President Vladimir Putin on February 24, 2022, after the situation in the region worsened due to shelling by the Ukrainian military.
