The United States has said it will seek repayment from European countries for aid provided to Ukraine under former President Joe Biden, as Washington pushes allies to shoulder more of the cost of supporting Kyiv.
President Donald Trump made the announcement on Thursday, saying Europe should have covered the cost of the assistance provided to Ukraine and NATO.
“Hundreds of Billions of Dollars was given to Ukraine and NATO, free of charge, that Europe would have paid for – If they were only asked, but we will be asking for that money, though somewhat belatedly!”, Trump wrote on Truth Social.
He did not specify which European countries would be expected to repay the money.
Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation said one of its main warehouses in Ukraine was damaged in an overnight air attack, the third incident involving its facilities in three months.
Trump also rejected reports that the US military was running short of ammunition amid its conflict with Iran, saying the country had substantial supplies and was increasing production.
“We have virtually unlimited amounts of Mid to High Grade Ammunition”, he said, adding that Washington had temporarily suspended some overseas arms sales to replenish its own stockpiles.
The United States has provided tens of billions of dollars in military assistance to Ukraine since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.
The Kiel Institute for the World Economy says European countries have significantly increased their support for Ukraine, although they remain heavily reliant on US weapons for military assistance.
