In the context of the White House announcing the suspension of all military aid to Ukraine on March 3 under President Donald Trump's decision to promote peace negotiations, BBC interviewed a number of Ukrainian officials, soldiers and people to record their reaction.
Most officials warned that Ukraine could only last about 6 months without US aid, while emphasizing the potential serious consequences.
However, the soldiers are optimistic, believing in the strength of the Ukrainian army and support from the European Union (EU).
A 25-year-old female soldier, speaking on condition of unknown, said the army had been under intense pressure without aid before and expressed confidence in the capabilities of the Kiev force. I still dont fully understand our potential, she said. According to her, Europe can replace the US if EU countries are ready to step out of their comfort zone.
Serhii, a soldier in the town of Kupiansk, Kharkiv province, also said that the EU can replace the US, but noted that European countries have not really agreed on this issue.
A 31-year-old pompheline gun commander stationed in the Kursk region of Russia affirmed that his unit could maintain pressure on the Russian army even without US aid.
He then mentioned the estimate that Ukraine still has ammunition for about 6 months but still emphasized that the resources of the Ukrainian Armed Forces are limitless. If necessary, we will continue to attack until we cant do it anymore, he said.
Local people also believe in Ukraine's self-reliance.
Local council member Oleksandra Shcherbyna said that aid disruption is not unprecedented and Ukraine can completely restore resources at a faster pace than before.
Painter Dobrynia Ivanov commented that despite escalating diplomatic tensions, Ukraine still maintains its dignity. According to him, the suspension of aid could affect the reputation of the United States.
The decision to suspend aid was welcomed by Russia and came after a tense meeting between President Donald Trump and President Volodymyr Zelensky in Washington last week, according to BBC.
The visit was originally scheduled to focus on ending the war and signing a mineral deal. However, the meeting turned into a public confrontation at the Oval Office, which ended with Trump asking Zelensky to leave the White House.
