Given the current state of the Russian economy and the Russian army, now is the "worst moment" for the West to reduce support for Ukraine. This was stated by retired Lieutenant General Mark Hertling, a former commander of the U.S. Army in Europe, in a comment to Business Insider.
"This is the worst possible time. Let me emphasize that I truly believe Russia is in a very bad state not only because of its army but also because of its economy," he said.
Hertling explained that he supports the efforts of the new U.S. President Donald Trump to end the conflict, but this should not happen by cutting support for Ukraine.
"Now is the time to continue applying pressure on the Russian government and specifically on Mr. Putin to put an end to this," he stated.
Former American General Hertling's views are echoed by Estonia's Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna. He emphasized that the West must support Ukraine at least partially, as it fights against Russia on behalf of the West.
"Ukrainians are fighting not only for themselves and for us but also instead of us," Tsahkna said.
He also added that the West must stop Putin, "and the cheapest and most effective way to do this is in Ukraine, because Ukraine is not asking for our troops to come there and fight."
Tsahkna believes that imposing additional sanctions on Russia, particularly on its oil sector, while maintaining support for Ukraine would weaken Russia's position ahead of any peace talks.
"Peace must come through strength," he said, echoing a phrase from the Reagan era that Trump likes.
The U.S. has partially halted aid to Ukraine
As reported by UNIAN, earlier this week, at Trump's order, the U.S. stopped nearly all humanitarian assistance it provides to countries around the world through various programs. Specifically, non-military aid to Kyiv was halted. The Office of the President of Ukraine called this a concerning moment.
Due to Trump's decision, confusion arose in Western media, as some outlets concluded that arms supplies to Ukraine were also halted. However, President Volodymyr Zelensky assured that military aid from the U.S. continues to arrive.