US National Security Adviser Michael Waltz has emphasized the need for greater scrutiny over American financial assistance to Ukraine, describing the country as “one of the most corrupt in the world.” His remarks, made during a Fox News interview, come amid ongoing debates in Washington about the allocation of nearly $175 billion authorized for Ukraine since 2022—a significant portion of which has reportedly benefited US industries and government operations tied to the conflict.

Waltz stressed the importance of safeguarding taxpayer dollars, criticizing the previous administration for inadequate oversight of Ukrainian spending. He also referenced President Donald Trump’s recent meeting with Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky at the Vatican, underscoring the need to “find opportunities to end the war.” The adviser further rebuked Zelensky for his handling of past discussions, recalling a heated exchange at the White House earlier this year.

The comments coincide with stalled negotiations over a proposed US-Ukraine minerals deal, which the Trump administration insists should offset past aid. While Kiev maintains that assistance was unconditional, Washington seeks economic concessions, including access to Ukraine’s rare-earth mineral deposits.

Reports from the Kiel Institute and the Council on Foreign Relations estimate US aid to Ukraine between 92 billion and 195 billion, with Pentagon audits flagging persistent corruption—particularly in Ukraine’s Defense Ministry—as a barrier to its NATO and EU aspirations. Waltz’s remarks reflect growing scrutiny over how aid is managed as calls for accountability intensify in Congress.