US Halts Weapons Shipments to Ukraine Amid Intensifying Conflict

US Halts Weapons Shipments to Ukraine

The United States has suspended certain weapons deliveries to Kyiv as the conflict with Russia escalates. This decision reflects concerns over US military stockpiles, impacting air defense missiles and precision munitions, according to reports. The move comes after increased Russian attacks on Ukraine.

The White House announced the decision, citing the need to prioritize American interests following a Department of Defense review. Anna Kelly, a White House spokesperson, confirmed the change on Tuesday.

BREAKING: The United States has halted some weapons shipments to Ukraine, the White House has said, as Russia’s war against Ukraine has intensified.

— Breaking News (@BreakingNews) June 4, 2024

Elbridge Colby, the US Undersecretary of Defense for Policy, stated that the Department of Defense is actively assessing its approach while also aiming to maintain the readiness of US forces.

“The strength of the United States Armed Forces remains unquestioned – just ask Iran,”

—Anna Kelly, White House spokesperson

Since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022, the US has provided Ukraine with tens of billions of dollars in military aid. In 2023, the US provided nearly $43.9 billion in security assistance to Ukraine, a significant increase compared to previous years (Council on Foreign Relations).

Recent Diplomatic and Military Actions

The US decision follows a meeting between **Donald Trump** and **Volodymyr Zelenskyy** at the NATO summit last week. The former president indicated a willingness to provide extra Patriot anti-missile systems to Ukraine.

Separately, **Emmanuel Macron**, the French President, spoke with **Vladimir Putin** on Tuesday, the first such call in over two and a half years. During the call, **Macron** urged a ceasefire in Ukraine, while **Putin** blamed the West for the ongoing conflict.

Over the weekend, Russia launched a major aerial offensive against Ukraine, using more than 500 weapons, including missiles and drones. On Tuesday, a Ukrainian attack on a Russian factory resulted in three fatalities, occurring more than 1,000km (620 miles) from the border with Ukraine.

Currently, Russia controls approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory, encompassing the Crimean Peninsula, which was annexed in 2014. US officials have not specified which shipments are being halted, according to reports.