US Expands Pause on Ukraine Weapons Shipments

The United States has paused shipments of key air defense missiles, including Patriot, Stinger, AIM-7, and Hellfire missiles, as well as GMLRS systems and 155mm artillery rounds, to Ukraine over concerns about U.S. military stockpiles following a Pentagon review under the Trump administration. Many of these weapons had been pledged during the Biden administration, but the halt reflects a shift in prioritizing American defense needs. White House officials assert that the U.S. military remains strong despite the pause. The decision comes as Russian attacks on Ukraine intensify and could impact Ukraine’s battlefield capabilities, raising legal and strategic concerns. The Trump administration has acknowledged Ukraine's need for continued support but has not approved new aid packages, with current resources expected to last only a few more months. The U.S. has also urged allies to increase their contributions, though many are hesitant due to their own security priorities.