The development follows an earlier statement by US President Donald Trump, who indicated that American officials were heading to Russia for negotiations. However, specific details regarding the agenda or scope of the discussions remain undisclosed.
Read more: Russia expels two British diplomats as it negotiates to restore US tiesThis meeting comes amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine, particularly in the wake of the three-year long conflict and related economic sanctions. The outcome of these discussions could hold significance for international diplomatic relations.
USAID ends $75 million grant for Ukraine energy support
In a separate development, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has terminated its $75-million grant agreement with the Ukraine Energy Support Fund, as reported by Ukrainian media citing the Energy Community Secretariat, which administers the fund.
According to the Secretariat, USAID formally notified them of the grant termination on February 27. The decision is expected to impact the availability of funds for procuring essential energy equipment for Ukraine’s energy and heating sectors.
Read more: Putin, in military fatigues, orders swift defeat of Ukrainian forces in Kursk
Fund’s establishment and amount raised
The agreement, originally established in 2023 with an initial $25 million allocation, was later expanded with a $50 million commitment in 2024 to support Ukraine’s critical energy infrastructure. The fund was created in April 2022 as part of a collaborative effort between Ukrainian Energy Minister German Galushchenko and EU Energy Commissioner Kardi Simson.
As of early March 2025, the fund had received commitments exceeding $1 billion from over 30 countries, including EU member states, The United Kingdom, and The United States of America, as well as contributions from various international and regional organisations.
Impact of USAID cut on Ukraine
Ukraine’s Prime Minister Denis Shmygal addressed the impact of the funding withdrawal, stating on March 4 that some USAID-backed projects had already been replaced. However, the loss of US funding has led to setbacks in key initiatives, including customs reforms, equipment procurement, and energy sector support.
Read more: United States resumes military aid, intelligence sharing as Ukraine says it is open to 30-day ceasefire
The termination of American financial support comes at a critical time as Ukraine continues its efforts to strengthen its energy infrastructure amidst ongoing challenges. The decision has raised concerns about the broader implications for Ukraine’s energy resilience and international support efforts.
(With agency inputs)
