US Halting Military Aid Is a ‘Betrayal’ to Ukraine’s Defenders, Soldier Tells Sky News | World News
It “breaks my heart” and feels like a “betrayal”.
This was how a Ukrainian soldier from a frontline combat unit described his feelings about Donald Trump’s decision to suspend US military assistance to Ukraine.
Serhii, 45, oversees a unit of US-provided Bradley infantry fighting vehicles that are tasked with defending an eastern Ukrainian region from advancing Russian troops.
The suspension of American military aid—if prolonged—will result in no new ammunition and lack the capability to repair any damaged vehicles, which is a continuous concern.
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On a recent operation by the 425th Storming Regiment “Skala,” three Bradleys advanced toward the city of Pokrovsk, a hotspot of intense fighting.
Only two made it back after one was struck by enemy fire.
Troops stated that it would be up to Ukraine to protect their territory without US military assistance.
“It will be very challenging,” Serhii stated, standing beside a large Bradley that was camouflaged and sheltered under tree cover in the Donetsk region.
“These vehicles are incredibly effective. They allow you to do more than just defend; you can also advance. It’s unfortunate we didn’t have this technology two or three years ago.”
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The regiment has been utilizing Bradleys for several months now, with Serhii serving as the head mechanic.
The tracked vehicles, outfitted with a chain gun capable of firing 200 rounds per minute, were initially developed in the 1980s but have been updated with modern reactive armor that can withstand drone strikes, rocket fire, and artillery shrapnel.
“The vehicle’s armor is outstanding,” Serhii remarked, clearly impressed by the equipment compared to the outdated Soviet-era vehicles many Ukrainian soldiers still have to operate.
Soldiers expressed that the Bradley infantry vehicles are effective not only for defense but also for advancing.
He mentioned that the crew of one of his Bradleys was struck by two rocket-propelled grenades but managed to continue driving without sustaining any injuries.
Serhii, a native of the Donetsk region, expressed feelings of betrayal over Trump’s decision to cut such vital support.
The US president made this move as part of his strategy to pressure Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy into negotiating a ceasefire with Russia.
“While I’m not a politician, for us, for those of us defending Ukraine, it’s a betrayal,” the soldier remarked.
Inside a US-supplied Bradley vehicle.
When asked how he felt upon hearing the news of the US president’s decision, Serhii replied: “The latest news breaks my heart; I can express it that way. It breaks my heart… If politicians resolve issues in this manner, simply by cutting arms supplies, that is criminal.”
He indicated that it would be tougher for Ukrainian forces to defend their territory without US military support, yet they would continue to fight.
“Even without this weaponry, we are determined to progress,” he asserted.
“The Russians must retreat, regardless. Our soldiers did not take up arms in vain; they stand united. Together, we will defeat this enemy.”
Regarding whether he had a message for Mr. Trump, the soldier stated: “Do not cease military assistance. Politics is politics, but the well-being of the people is paramount.”
“It will be exceedingly tough for us without such equipment. This equipment is advantageous; it enables us to deliver results. We’ve shown what we can do in the past, and we will continue to do so. That’s the reality. Thank you.”
Fighting ‘for my motherland’
Soldier Sedoi expressed his fatigue regarding the ongoing war.
Sky News observed two crews preparing their combat vehicles for a possible mission on a recent Thursday evening.
Sedoi, 41, who commands one of the Bradleys and operates its weaponry, stated that the American-supplied vehicle instills confidence when entering battle—and likely instills concern in Russian troops facing it.
“We make a lot of noise. Everything ignites and burns… It’s an excellent vehicle,” he remarked.
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Sedoi mentioned he did not have a reaction to the news about the cessation of American military assistance, stating: “I stay out of their politics.”
However, he indicated a desire to see the war conclude—even if it entails Russia retaining some captured territory.
“Let it finish, so that lives no longer hang in the balance. Many have perished,” he added.
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Having recently recuperated from a shrapnel injury, Sedoi volunteered to fight after Vladimir Putin unleashed his full-scale assault over three years ago due to Russia’s acts of brutality.
“I have heard of their actions in villages, particularly concerning children and women… I cannot let them advance further… That is why I am here.”
“But, honestly, I am growing weary of the conflict.”
Regardless, he and his fellow soldiers persist. When asked why he continues to fight, the soldier declared: “For my motherland.”
