Europe outpaces US in military aid to Ukraine
President Donald Trump has faced criticism over his claims about U.S. military aid compared to that of Europe. He has stated that the U.S. has provided more support to Ukraine than European nations. However, a recent analysis shows that Europe has actually given more military equipment in various categories. The report by Dutch defense analysis website Oryx highlights significant differences between U.S. and European contributions. For example, the U.S. has sent only 32 fighting tanks while Europe has provided 887. Additionally, the U.S. sent 18 self-propelled artillery guns compared to Europe's 772. Europe's aid also includes more multiple rocket launchers. Britain’s financial aid to Ukraine amounts to £12.8 billion, with a promise of an additional £3 billion each year. The UK has also been a leader in providing military resources, being the first to supply long-range missiles and Main Battle Tanks to Ukraine. While the analysis points out some inconsistencies, it notes that the U.S. has not directly donated any fighter jets. However, former President Joe Biden allowed European countries to send U.S.-made F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. Trump previously claimed that the U.S. had given Ukraine $350 billion in aid, while he suggested Europe contributed around $100 billion. In reality, since 2022, the U.S. Congress has approved about $174 billion in aid, much of which was spent on U.S. equipment. Despite these challenges, the U.S. provides unique military capabilities that are critical for Ukraine's defense. Recently, Trump's decision to halt intelligence-sharing with Ukraine had an impact on the front lines. The U.S. resumed this cooperation after Ukraine's President Zelensky agreed to a 30-day ceasefire last week.