Ukrainian soldiers who once wore American flag patches as a tribute to the United States are now removing them in growing frustration with Donald Trump. The symbolic act reflects their disappointment over what they see as shifting US support for Ukraine in its war against Russia.
For three years, American weapons and financial aid have played a crucial role in Ukraine’s defense. The support was not just material but also a morale boost, reinforcing a sense of solidarity with the US. However, Trump’s recent statements and apparent willingness to engage with Vladimir Putin have led to frustration among Ukrainian forces.
A high-ranking officer, who has been fighting since the first days of the full-scale invasion, admitted that many in the military are questioning what Ukraine’s future would look like if American aid were to stop completely. Others suspect Trump’s hostility stems from his past conflicts with Ukrainian leadership, particularly President Volodymyr Zelensky’s refusal to comply with Trump’s political demands, which led to his first impeachment.
On the frontlines, Ukrainian soldiers have mixed reactions. Some believe Trump is acting purely out of self-interest, while others hope he is playing a strategic game to gain Putin’s trust before unveiling a peace plan that benefits Ukraine. A military doctor near the eastern city of Kupiansk expressed concern over Trump’s lack of empathy for Ukraine, while another soldier debated whether to remove an American flag patch from his medical kit.
Despite the uncertainty, Ukrainian officials stress that their country has grown stronger and more self-sufficient in the past three years. The experience of waiting months for delayed US weapons shipments has reinforced the need to expand domestic military production.
Ukrainian leaders warn that Putin is using these political tensions to create divisions among Ukraine’s allies. They insist that unity remains the key to defeating Russian aggression and securing a just peace.