Political analyst Ihor Reiterovych, in a video for the "Klochok Time" channel, analyzes the changes in cooperation between the US and Ukraine following Donald Trump's rise to power. He highlights the impact of Trump's presidency on intelligence sharing, arms supplies, and the direct support for Ukrainian strikes on key Russian energy sites.
According to The Financial Times, the Trump administration actively supported Kyiv's actions, helping to coordinate and conduct long-range strikes on Russian targets. US intelligence provided crucial information about flight routes, altitudes, and mission timing, enabling Ukrainian drones and missiles to evade Russian air defense and hit their objectives accurately.
Reiterovych notes that Ukraine selects the targets for strikes, while the US provides intelligence to assess their viability. This has enhanced the effectiveness of such operations and maintained pressure on Russia. The focus of many attacks has been on energy infrastructure—namely, oil refineries well behind the frontline.
He also points out the multi-layered strategy of Trump: on one hand, supporting Ukraine weakens Russia’s position on the battlefield; on the other, it aligns with American economic interests in the oil market. Russia and the US are competitors in oil production, and damaging Russian energy infrastructure can strengthen the US position.
Despite official denial of direct involvement in combat operations, US assistance—through intelligence sharing, high-precision weaponry, and indirect support—is crucial. The Trump administration has maintained a public stance of detachment, avoiding direct confrontation with Russia.
The analyst suggests making the most of US support until Russia agrees to peace talks. Meanwhile, Ukraine's defense industry should keep developing and securing more weapons, serving both Ukraine's interests and America’s economic goals.
