Following US President Donald Trump's move to suspend military assistance to Ukraine, Kyiv reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining diplomatic engagement with Washington. Trump halted the aid on Monday, aiming to pressure Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy into negotiations to end the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, addressing the development, emphasized that his government would continue working with the US through all available channels. He acknowledged that American military support had played a crucial role in safeguarding Ukrainian lives.

"The United States' assistance has been instrumental, and we will persist in our engagement with them in a composed and constructive manner," Shmyhal stated.

The White House confirmed that the suspension would remain in place until Trump is convinced that Ukraine is actively pursuing peace talks with Russia.

Despite the setback, Shmyhal assured that Ukrainian forces were equipped to manage the battlefield situation. "Our military and government possess the necessary capabilities and resources to sustain the front line, though specific details cannot be disclosed," he added.

Trump’s decision comes shortly after a heated meeting in the Oval Office, where he and Vice President JD Vance reportedly criticized Zelenskyy for what they perceived as a lack of appreciation for the over $180 billion in aid the US has provided to Ukraine since Russia's full-scale invasion began on February 24, 2022.

Zelenskyy, commenting on the situation, reiterated that a peace agreement with Russia remained a distant prospect. However, he expressed confidence that Ukraine's long-standing partnership with the US would endure despite recent tensions with Trump.

Trump, in response, condemned Zelenskyy’s remarks, calling them "the worst statement he could have made" and warning that "America will not tolerate this much longer."

Relations between Trump and Zelenskyy have become increasingly strained since Trump assumed office in January, reversing previous US policies on Ukraine and taking a more conciliatory stance towards Russia.