Washington, DC, March 6, 2025 – The United States has suspended intelligence-sharing with Ukraine, further tightening the screws on President Volodymyr Zelensky after cutting military aid earlier this week. The Trump administration has reportedly halted “everything,” including critical data on Russian targets, which could severely impact Ukraine’s long-range drone strikes and air defense capabilities.
According to sources cited by Reuters, the intelligence cutoff could leave Kyiv vulnerable to Russian missile attacks and strategic bomber movements. This move follows a tense Oval Office meeting where Trump and Zelensky reportedly clashed before the media, signaling a sharp shift in US policy toward a more conciliatory approach with Moscow.
A High-Stakes Pressure Tactic
The intelligence freeze, combined with the suspension of military aid, is seen as a pressure tactic to push Ukraine toward peace talks with Russia. The Trump administration has suggested that both measures could be reversed if negotiations progress. CIA Director John Ratcliffe hinted at a possible reversal, stating, “I think the pause will go away. We’ll continue working with Ukraine to push back on aggression, but peace talks must move forward.”
Trump-Zelensky Showdown
The funding and intelligence halt came after a dramatic Oval Office confrontation between Trump and Zelensky. The dispute also delayed the signing of a minerals deal that would grant the US rights to revenue from Ukraine’s critical mineral deposits—something Trump has demanded as repayment for past military aid.
Despite the tension, Zelensky has indicated some progress, saying that officials from both sides could meet soon to resolve the issue.
Minerals Deal & Peace Talks
A senior US official revealed that the minerals agreement is expected to be finalized soon, potentially paving the way for broader peace negotiations between Ukraine, the US, and Russia. Addressing Congress, Trump claimed “Kyiv is ready to sign the minerals deal,” and hinted at “serious discussions with Russia” that could lead to an end to the war.
“It’s time to end this senseless war. If you want peace, you have to talk to both sides,” Trump declared, underscoring his administration’s shift in strategy.
