Trump halts some military aid to Ukraine over inventory shortages

Donald Trump's administration suspended some arms shipments to Ukraine following a Pentagon review that revealed worryingly low levels in U.S. stockpiles, officials confirmed Tuesday. The decision represents a strategic shift in Washington's foreign policy and a clear message about national security priorities under the new administration.

Although the previous administration had committed key munitions to support Ukrainian defense, the White House said U.S. interests must prevail. "This decision was made to put America’s interests first following a review of our nation’s military support and assistance to other countries across the globe," presidential spokeswoman Anna Kelly said in a statement.

Reserves at risk, but U.S. remains steadfast

A Pentagon official, speaking on condition of anonymity, explained that some of the weapons previously promised to Ukraine will not be shipped because current inventories are too low. That was the conclusion of an internal Department of Defense review, which warned of the risk to the operational capability of the Armed Forces if certain shipments were continued.

Despite that warning, Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said the U.S. military remains fully capable, and stressed that military modernization remains a priority, especially with the backing of the new tax and spending cuts package being discussed in Congress.

Trump opens the door to more Patriot missiles, but with conditions

During the NATO summit last week, President Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and acknowledged that Ukraine is requesting additional U.S.-made Patriot air defense systems. Trump responded that his administration is considering the request, but cautioned that such systems are also needed for the defense of the United States and its allies, especially Israel.

"They do want to have the antimissile missiles, OK, as they call them, the Patriots," Trump said, referring to Ukraine. "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."