US Pauses Some Missile Shipments to Ukraine Due to Low Stockpiles

 

The United States has temporarily halted shipments of certain air defense missiles and precision-guided munitions to Ukraine amid concerns about depleting domestic stockpiles, according to two sources familiar with the matter. The decision affects key supplies including air defense interceptors that help Ukraine counter frequent Russian drone and missile attacks. The pause comes as Russia has intensified its aerial bombardment of Ukrainian cities, launching waves of drones and missiles that have caused significant destruction and civilian casualties. Since President Donald Trump took office in January, the administration has shifted its stance on Ukraine, advocating for a diplomatic resolution to the war and expressing caution about future military assistance. While no formal policy change has been announced, the Trump administration has paused and then resumed some previously approved aid packages. Most recently, it is reported that shipments promised under former President Joe Biden have slowed, with defense officials closely evaluating remaining inventories to avoid compromising US military readiness. Fedir Venislavskyi, a member of Ukraine’s national security and defense committee, described the decision as painful and unfortunate, particularly in light of ongoing Russian aggression. Ukraine is already facing critical shortages of 155 millimeter artillery ammunition used on the front lines, raising concerns about its ability to sustain defenses amid Russia’s expected summer ground offensive in Donetsk and Sumy. Despite the pause, Trump has signaled he is considering selling more Patriot missiles to Ukraine following a recent meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. The Pentagon stated it is presenting the president with options to continue support while ensuring US defense priorities are not compromised. All weapons shipments were briefly halted in February and again in March. The Pentagon emphasized that its strategy is under review to balance supporting Ukraine and preserving US defense capabilities.

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