Washington is intensifying its pressure on European NATO allies, demanding significantly increased financial and logistical support for Ukraine’s defense against Russia, according to U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker. In an interview with German broadcaster ARD Tagesthemen, Whitaker delivered a pointed message, urging European nations to sever their dependence on Russian energy imports, highlighting that some countries continue to purchase Russian oil and gas despite the ongoing conflict.
“There’s no reason why we should be financing the Russian war machine” Whitaker stated, emphasizing that every euro spent on Russian energy directly contributes to Russia’s ability to prosecute the war in Ukraine. He suggested that European nations should explore alternative sources, specifically referencing purchases from the United States as a viable option.
Beyond energy dependence, Whitaker expressed concerns about the pace of European contributions to Ukraine’s military needs. He underscored that the United States is consistently providing ammunition and expects allied nations to fulfill their commitments and provide the urgently required supplies. There’s a perceived imbalance, he implied, requiring a bolstering of defense capabilities not just for Ukraine, but also for the security of Europe itself.
The Ambassador also shifted blame for the stalled peace negotiations squarely on Russia’s shoulders, asserting that Moscow has demonstrated an unwillingness to engage in meaningful dialogue or consider a ceasefire. He suggested that the Trump administration is actively attempting to create conditions that might incentivize Russia to return to the negotiating table.
Whitaker revealed a dynamic of frustration within the Trump administration regarding President Putin’s actions, detailing instances where apparent progress toward a potential agreement has been repeatedly undermined by renewed Russian military offensives targeting Ukrainian cities and civilian populations.
Maintaining pressure on Russia through sanctions remains a key focus, according to Whitaker, who explicitly called on European allies, including Germany, to align with U.S. policy and intensify the sanctions regime. The Ambassador’s comments signal a hardening of the U.S. stance and a clear expectation that European nations will substantially increase their financial and political support for Ukraine and adopt a more assertive approach towards Moscow.