TLDR:
Trump Jr mocks Ukraine over funding
Zelensky faces uncertain US support
Musk promises Starlink support to Kyiv
WEST PALM BEACH (The Thursday Times) — Donald Trump Jr stirred controversy over the weekend with a social media post mocking Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, suggesting Ukraine may soon face a reduction in US financial aid. In an Instagram video reposted by Trump Jr, Zelensky is portrayed with dollar bills falling, captioned as “38 days from losing your allowance.” Originally posted by former Alaska governor Sarah Palin, the video has gained traction among Trump’s supporters as his father prepares for a potential policy shift regarding US support for Ukraine.
The elder Trump, set to re-enter the White House, has expressed mixed signals about aiding Ukraine. During his campaign, he questioned the financial burden of US involvement, hinting at a diplomatic shift aimed at securing peace without prioritising Ukraine’s territorial integrity. Zelensky’s recent phone call with Trump, during which he sought reassurances of continued support, was received cautiously in Kyiv. Although Trump promised that Ukraine “would be happy,” he has also signalled potential concessions to Russia. Reports indicate that Elon Musk, a possible appointee in Trump’s administration, was part of the call, pledging that Starlink would maintain communication support for Ukrainian forces.
Future U.S. aid
The Instagram post by Trump Jr has sparked debate over the US’s financial commitment to Ukraine. With Trump’s campaign rhetoric focusing on reducing US expenses abroad, Zelensky’s administration faces a looming uncertainty. Senior Republicans, including strategist Bryan Lanza, suggest that the incoming president is more interested in establishing peace than ensuring Ukraine regains territory. The post has thus reignited concerns over Trump’s position and potential policy changes.
Though Trump has assured Zelensky of a continued relationship, he has refrained from offering concrete promises regarding military aid. Former national security adviser John Bolton speculated that Trump’s plan for Ukraine may involve a compromise, requiring Ukraine to relinquish Russian-occupied regions. Ukrainian officials are wary of potential territorial negotiations, fearing they may face pressure to accept terms unfavourable to their sovereignty.
Starlink’s role in the war
Elon Musk, who joined the Trump-Zelensky call, has pledged that SpaceX’s Starlink network will continue to support Ukraine’s military communications. Musk’s promise comes at a critical moment, with Kyiv increasingly dependent on Starlink amid ongoing hostilities. His involvement in the conversation underscores the potential influence of private actors in US-Ukraine relations under Trump’s administration.
