The United States has paused intelligence sharing with Ukraine, marking a significant shift in its support for the war-torn country, White House National Security Adviser Mike Waltz has confirmed.

Speaking on the matter, Waltz stated: "We have taken a step back and are pausing and reviewing all aspects of this relationship."

The decision follows a diplomatic breakdown after a tense Oval Office meeting on Friday between the US President and his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky.

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The suspension of intelligence sharing is expected to have serious consequences on the battlefield, according to BBC correspondent Tom Bateman. Intelligence from the US has been a crucial factor in Ukraine’s strategic defence against Russian aggression.

This latest development comes after former President Donald Trump had already put a hold on military aid to Kyiv. However, Waltz indicated that the suspension could be reconsidered should peace negotiations show progress.

In a further twist to the situation, the US President, during an address to Congress last night, suggested that Ukraine was now prepared to engage in peace talks.

He read aloud a letter he had received from Zelensky, underscoring Kyiv’s willingness to seek a diplomatic resolution to the conflict.

The diplomatic rift adds another layer of complexity to Ukraine’s war effort, as the country has been heavily reliant on both intelligence and military support from Western allies.

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It remains to be seen whether this move signals a shift in broader US policy or serves as a strategic manoeuvre to push Ukraine towards negotiations.

Meanwhile, officials in Kyiv have yet to issue an official response to the latest development. The situation is rapidly evolving, and all eyes remain on potential diplomatic engagements in the coming days.

Source: BBC