The United States has halted shipments of some air defense missiles and precision munitions to Ukraine, citing concerns that American weapons stockpiles have dropped to levels that could compromise U.S. military readiness. The decision affects munitions previously promised to Ukraine under the Biden administration and comes as Kyiv faces some of the most intense Russian missile and drone attacks targeting civilian infrastructure.
The move represents the latest shift in U.S. policy toward Ukraine under President Donald Trump, who has prioritized negotiations to end the conflict over continued military support.
The halt was ordered by Elbridge Colby, the Pentagon's policy chief, following a comprehensive review of Defense Department munitions stockpiles1. According to three people familiar with the matter who spoke to Politico, the review raised concerns that overall supplies of artillery rounds, air defense missiles and precision munitions were declining to problematic levels1.
"This decision was made to put America's interests first following a DOD review of our nation's military support and assistance to other countries across the globe," White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said in a statement23. "The strength of the United States Armed Forces remains unquestioned — just ask Iran."
The initial decision to withhold some assistance was made in early June but is only now taking effect, according to sources1. A U.S. official told CBS News the move stems from concerns about military stockpiles falling too low2.
The weapons pause comes as Ukraine confronts what officials describe as some of the largest Russian barrages targeting civilians in Kyiv and other cities1. The timing has drawn attention from defense analysts, who note the contrast between Ukraine's urgent need for air defense systems and America's decision to restrict deliveries.
Since Trump took office, the United States has not approved new military aid packages for Ukraine, with the country currently receiving only remaining portions of the $61 billion package allocated under Biden in April 20242. Trump has shifted focus from backing Ukraine's fight to negotiating a peace deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin3.
The United States has provided Ukraine more than $66 billion in weapons and military assistance since Russia's invasion in February 202212. Previous concerns about weapons stockpiles have emerged periodically throughout the conflict, with defense experts noting in 2022 that some U.S. inventories were reaching minimum levels needed for war plans and training3.
European allies have pledged to increase their weapons deliveries as U.S. support has diminished under Trump, with Britain and Germany taking leadership roles in coordinating aid4.
