Ukraine enters the fourth year of its all-out war with Russia on Monday, facing growing uncertainty over U.S. support as its weary troops struggle to hold their ground against relentless Russian advances.
Recent tensions between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy have further complicated Ukraine’s situation. Trump recently criticized Zelenskiy as an "unpopular dictator" and urged Ukraine to seek a swift peace deal. In response, Zelenskiy accused Trump of being trapped in a "disinformation bubble."
In a significant shift in U.S. policy, American officials last week held direct talks with Russia in Saudi Arabia, excluding Ukraine and European allies from the discussions. Washington has also made it clear that it will not provide security guarantees or send troops in the event of a peace deal, leaving European powers to shoulder the responsibility.
Zelenskiy has been engaged in urgent diplomatic efforts, holding multiple calls with European leaders to secure continued support. In response to growing concerns over U.S. commitment, several European leaders are expected to visit Kyiv to mark the anniversary of the war, which has become the bloodiest conflict in Europe since World War Two.
On the battlefield, Ukrainian soldiers are outnumbered and increasingly exhausted as questions loom over future U.S. military aid. European allies may struggle to fill the gap if American assistance diminishes.
"They're fighting on, but those who have been here since the first days are tired—more psychologically than physically," said Evhen Kolosov, chief medic of Ukraine’s Spartan brigade. "This is war, who said it would be easy?"
With military losses mounting, funerals for fallen soldiers have become a common sight across Ukraine. Millions of civilians remain displaced, and air raid sirens continue to disrupt daily life.
Amid the diplomatic turbulence, former Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin stressed the need to balance ties with Washington while strengthening relations with Europe and engaging countries like China and India. He downplayed the idea of a crisis with the U.S., describing Trump’s rhetoric as a passing "tornado."
A key point of contention in U.S.-Ukraine talks is a proposed agreement that would give the U.S. access to Ukraine's mineral wealth in exchange for continued support. Trump has pushed for a deal worth hundreds of billions of dollars, arguing that Ukraine should compensate the U.S. for its aid. Zelenskiy rejected an initial draft earlier this month, citing unfavorable terms and the absence of security guarantees.
Reports have emerged that U.S. negotiators raised the possibility of limiting Ukraine's access to Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite network, which is vital for Ukrainian military operations. Meanwhile, Trump has called for wartime elections in Ukraine, a stance aligned with Russia’s claims that Zelenskiy’s presidency lacks legitimacy. Under martial law, elections are currently prohibited.
Zelenskiy responded on Sunday by stating he would be willing to step down if it led to peace, joking that he would trade his departure for Ukraine’s NATO membership.
Despite political pressure, Zelenskiy maintains a trust rating above 50%, according to Ukrainian polls. Many Kyiv residents continue to support him.
"I think it's all wrong—Trump in America has the same rating as Zelenskiy has in Ukraine," said Oleksandr Babiuk, a 55-year-old service sector worker. "Although I did not vote for him, I supported him throughout martial law and will continue to support him."
As Ukraine faces another year of war, the path ahead remains uncertain. With troops on the front lines growing weary and U.S. support in question, Ukraine’s leadership is working to secure the backing needed to continue its fight for survival.