Where did U.S. support for Ukraine go?
Oct 20, 2026 · 8m
Summary
This episode examines President Trump’s shifting stance toward Russia and its impact on Ukraine, highlighting recent public clashes with President Zelensky and controversial moves like importing Russian diesel and lifting sanctions. Former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine William Taylor discusses how U.S. military aid has dropped by 95% and argues that Trump’s pro-Russian approach is unlikely to end the war, as Ukraine will continue to resist occupation. The segment also covers ongoing diplomatic tensions and the potential consequences of the U.S. abandoning its support for Ukrainian independence.
Topics discussed
Trump and Zelensky trade public insults
US policy shifts: Diesel deal and lifted sanctions
Sponsor: Google Workspace with Gemini
Sponsor: NPR Plus and midterm election coverage
Context: From Biden's stance to Trump's overtures
Interview: Ambassador Taylor on the 2025 shift
The 95% drop in US military and financial aid
Congressional pushback and held-up interceptor missiles
Clarifying current US policy on weapons and intel
Why a pro-Russian stance will not end the war
Rebutting the 'enough is enough' argument for peace
Closing credits and production team
Sponsor: NPR Politics podcast
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