US cuts security funding to states on Russian border

The United States plans to gradually phase out some of its security assistance to European countries bordering Russia, according to two sources familiar with the matter.
This decision is in line with President Trump's “America First” policy. As part of this policy, foreign aid has already been severely restricted recently, and European countries are expected to take on more responsibility for their own defense in the future.

The most important recipients of the funds to date include Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, where the budget is secured until September 2026. The Trump administration has not yet requested an extension of the program.

In accordance with an order issued by Trump on the first day of his second term, a comprehensive realignment of US foreign aid has been initiated. A White House spokesperson stated that the measure had been coordinated with European partners in order to make them take on more responsibility.

In contrast, Senator Jeanne Shaheen (top Democrat on the Foreign Relations Committee) called the move extremely short-sighted. She said it jeopardized the defense capabilities of allies and exposed US troops to unnecessary risks because their allies were less trained and prepared.

(reuters, est)