Senators press nominee on U.S. stance toward Ukraine after Oval Office meeting; Zelensky signals willingness to negotiate

Senators pressed Elbridge Colby about his past statements on U.S. support for Ukraine and whether strategic prioritization should reduce aid for Europe in favor of the Indo‑Pacific. Colby said his public positions emphasize prioritization and that he recognizes China and other threats are urgent, but he also said he supports Ukraine's defense and described the diplomatic situation as "delicate," declining to make public commentary that he said might interfere with diplomatic progress.

Ranking Member Jack Reed and others criticized what they described as recent gestures that undercut U.S. credibility with allies; Reed said the administration's decision to halt some military aid to Ukraine risked emboldening adversaries and harming American standing. Colby said he aims to present realistic options and to support efforts that produce a durable, negotiated end to the conflict if possible.

Near the conclusion of the hearing, Chairman Wicker read a statement posted by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky: "Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer ... Ukraine is ready to sign [the minerals and security agreement] at any time in any convenient format." The chairman also noted President Trump's public statement that "the government of the United States of America supports Ukraine's efforts to obtain security guarantees needed to establish lasting peace." Several senators urged continued U.S. support for Kyiv while others emphasized strategic prioritization of resources.

Colby said he "stands by" prior statements that Ukraine's invasion by Russia is a serious matter, but he emphasized his desire not to interfere with a delicate diplomatic process while the administration pursues a possible negotiated settlement. Senators from both parties pressed for clarity on whether recent actions would diminish U.S. deterrence and alliance credibility.