Ukraine and Europe have little choice but to work with Trump

What the report says

In an opinion piece published by Al Jazeera on 17 October 2026, Dimitar Bechev argues that Ukraine and European governments remain tied to the United States even as relations with President Donald Trump have become more strained. The article says President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is pressing European allies for continued backing while navigating what it describes as a difficult and unpredictable White House posture toward Russia.

Bechev points to several recent developments that have heightened concern in Kyiv and European capitals, including reports of a temporary disruption to Starlink/Starshield services on 13-14 October and Trump’s renewed diplomatic outreach to Moscow. The piece notes that some of the reported service restrictions were later reversed and that claims about White House involvement were not confirmed. It also says the US continues to provide intelligence and that Europe is still paying for American weapons delivered to Ukraine, even as debate continues over possible concessions to Russia.

The article argues that Europe can only partly fill the gap left by Washington. It says the EU lacks the military capacity, satellite communications alternative, and leverage needed to replace US support in the short term, while Russia continues its attacks on Ukraine and hybrid activity in Europe. Bechev also highlights the financial burden on European states as they prepare for further aid needs and broader budget negotiations.

The overall message is that, despite frustration over Trump’s approach, Ukraine and Europe have limited practical options beyond maintaining cooperation with Washington while hoping the current US policy shift does not last.