The U.S. has decided to pause certain weapon shipments to Ukraine due to concerns over diminishing domestic stockpiles, sources revealed on Tuesday. This move, based on a Pentagon review, signifies a shift in priorities under President Donald Trump.
White House spokesperson Anna Kelly stated, “This decision was made to put America’s interests first following a (Defense Department) review of our nation’s military support and assistance to other countries across the globe.” She emphasized that the U.S. military’s strength remains unchallenged, referencing recent U.S. missile strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
An anonymous U.S. official confirmed that certain shipments are halted due to low stock levels of some items previously promised to Ukraine. Since February 2022, the U.S. has provided over $66 billion in military aid to Ukraine amid its conflict with Russia.
Throughout the conflict, the U.S. has urged allies to supply air defense systems to Ukraine. However, many nations, particularly in Eastern Europe, are hesitant to part with their advanced systems due to fears of Russian aggression.
The suspension of weapon deliveries follows an extensive aerial attack by Russia on Ukraine, reported by Ukrainian officials, further complicating peace negotiations advocated by Trump.
The U.S. decision was initially reported by Politico. During a recent NATO summit, Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and discussed the potential of providing more U.S.-made Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine. Trump acknowledged their effectiveness, stating, “They do want to have the antimissile missiles, OK, as they call them, the Patriots. And we’re going to see if we can make some available. We need them, too. We’re supplying them to Israel, and they’re very effective, 100% effective. Hard to believe how effective. They do want that more than any other thing.”
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth expressed during a Senate defense appropriations subcommittee hearing that the administration’s stance on aiding Ukraine has evolved. He highlighted the need for Europe to enhance its defense capabilities, crediting Trump for this shift.
Hegseth further mentioned that while some U.S. security funding for Ukraine is still in process, overall assistance would decrease, reflecting a preference for a negotiated peace, which is seen as beneficial for all involved parties.
Last month, Hegseth opted out of a meeting of the international military aid coordination group for Ukraine, a group initiated by his predecessor, Lloyd Austin. Hegseth’s absence marked the first time a U.S. defense secretary did not attend these sessions, with leadership roles now transferred to Germany and the United Kingdom.
