White House officials delayed a trade agreement with Ukraine in late August, around the same time President TrumpDonald TrumpBiden to hold virtual bilateral meeting with Mexican president More than 300 charged in connection to Capitol riot Trump Jr.: There are 'plenty' of GOP incumbents who should be challenged MORE was withholding security aid to the country, The Washington Post reported on Thursday.
The decision came after then-national security adviser John BoltonJohn BoltonTrump offered North Korea's Kim a ride home on Air Force One: report Key impeachment figure Pence sticks to sidelines Bolton lawyer: Trump impeachment trial is constitutional MORE warned U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer
Bob LighthizerWhiskey, workers and friends caught in the trade dispute crossfire GOP senator warns quick vote on new NAFTA would be 'huge mistake' Pelosi casts doubt on USMCA deal in 2019 MORE that President Trump would likely oppose any assistance to Kiev, the Post reported.
The decision suggests the Trump administration's actions toward Ukraine went beyond holding up the $400 million in security-related aid. Trump is under scrutiny over allegations that he delayed the funds as he sought to pressure Ukraine to investigate former Vice President Joe BidenJoe BidenHouse Democrats pass sweeping .9T COVID-19 relief bill with minimum wage hike Biden to hold virtual bilateral meeting with Mexican president More than 300 charged in connection to Capitol riot MORE, a 2020 presidential contender.
It's not clear whether Trump directed or was aware of the discussion between Bolton and Lighthizer, the Post reported.