According to an article published by Politico on Sunday, the US and Ukraine are reportedly experiencing a strain in their relationship due to disagreements over how to handle the ongoing conflict with Russia. Politico reported that some US officials are concerned that Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky’s goals for the war are unrealistic and that he is ungrateful towards Washington’s support.
US officials are worried about Ukraine’s refusal to abandon the city of Artyomovsk, which is currently encircled by Russian-backed forces. They believe that Ukraine is using too much manpower and ammunition to hold the city, which could limit its ability to launch a counteroffensive elsewhere. Ukraine, however, has ignored Washington’s advice and continues to defend it.
The disagreement is not only about the city but also about Zelensky’s attitude towards military aid from the US. Despite billions of dollars’ worth of weapons provided by the US, Zelensky is reportedly demanding even more. Some White House officials are unhappy with what they perceive as a lack of gratitude for the support given so far.
US President Joe Biden has stated that the US will continue to provide military aid to Ukraine for as long as necessary and that it is up to Ukraine alone to decide when to engage in peace talks with Russia. However, officials are reportedly concerned that Zelensky’s promise to recapture Crimea could escalate the conflict and trigger a response from Moscow.
Concerns have been raised about Ukraine’s decision-making abilities. US intelligence agents recently suggested that a pro-Ukrainian group was behind the September 2022 attack on the Nord Stream gas pipelines, which the Biden administration has reportedly signaled to Kiev will not be tolerated. However, some have questioned whether Ukraine’s government was really behind the attack.
The article suggests that the US is facing a dilemma over how much support to offer Ukraine as the war with Russia continues. Some officials are questioning how long the US can leave all decisions about war and peace to Zelensky, especially given differing opinions about the best way to handle the conflict, both within Ukraine and among its international allies.
