Trump says US will consider supporting Ukraine with loans instead of 'gifts'

RIA Novosti news agency reported on April 13 that in a press conference with House Speaker Mike Johnson broadcast by Fox News, former US President Donald Trump said he would provide aid to Ukraine in the form of loans instead of "gifts".

"We're looking at making it a loan now, rather than just a gift," said Donald Trump.

Former US President Donald Trump did not completely oppose providing aid to Ukraine, but said Washington should do so in the form of loans.

Speaking at a campaign event in North Charleston in February 2024, Mr. Trump said: "They want us to give them another $ 60 billion. Let's do it this way. Lend them the money. If they can make money, they will pay us back. If they can't, they don't have to pay us back."

Mr Trump has frequently questioned why the US should provide aid to Ukraine, comparing the loan idea to the deals he makes with promising athletes who have no money early in their careers.

Earlier, on April 12, the Financial Times (UK) reported that the US had proposed providing aid to Ukraine in the form of a loan, guaranteed by future profits. The loan amount to Ukraine would come from the confiscation of frozen Russian state assets.

According to the Financial Times, the US initiative involves withdrawing profits from Russian assets through bonds or loans. This measure could bring Ukraine 30 to 40 billion euros a year. The US plan will be considered by G7 finance ministers next week in Washington, and at the NATO summit in June./.