US President-elect Donald Trump plans to continue military assistance to Ukraine, contradicting his earlier campaign promise to cut aid and push for peace talks, according to the Financial Times.
Sources indicate Trump will maintain military equipment supplies to Ukraine post-inauguration.
His foreign policy team has informed European officials of his aim to raise NATO defense spending from the current 2% of GDP to 5%.
Despite European reluctance, only 23 of 32 NATO members presently meet the 2% target.
While Trump opposes Ukraine's NATO membership, he views continued military aid as part of his 'peace through strength' strategy.
His team suggests negotiations for a defense spending increase may target 3.
5% instead of the previously stated 5%.
European leaders, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, remain optimistic about ongoing US support for Ukraine, despite challenges in securing adequate defense assistance without it.
The shift in Trump's position may reinforce NATO's collective defense strategy amid ongoing tensions in Eastern Europe.